⚖️🏛️ GOV. SHERRILL ADDRESSES MISCONDUCT REPORTS AMID INVESTIGATION INVOLVING LT. GOV. CALDWELL 🏛️⚖️
Governor Mikie Sherrill is addressing an internal investigation into Lieutenant Governor Dale Caldwell following allegations of ethics violations and inappropriate behavior toward women. Former Attorney General Christopher Porrino is leading the inquiry, though no final findings have been released yet.
📍 TRENTON, NJ — Governor Mikie Sherrill said Tuesday that her administration is taking reports of inappropriate behavior and misconduct “extremely seriously,” as an internal investigation involving Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of State Dale Caldwell continues.
In a statement released September 8, Sherrill did not specifically name Caldwell. She said any credible report of misconduct must be fully examined and addressed, adding that she would take appropriate action if the evidence warrants it.
The statement comes days after the New Jersey Globe reported that Caldwell is the subject of an internal investigation by the governor’s office involving allegations of inappropriate behavior toward women and potential ethics violations, including purported offers of state employment.
According to the Globe, former New Jersey Attorney General Christopher Porrino was brought in to lead the investigation. Porrino and his law partner, former Assistant U.S. Attorney Shantae Gray, have reportedly interviewed complainants and potential witnesses. The report said Caldwell has been cooperating with the investigation.
🗣️ Sherrill said her administration has responsibilities to both people who bring forward complaints and individuals who are the subject of those complaints. She said people should be able to report concerns without fear of retaliation, while those accused should receive a fair and thorough review.
The investigation has also drawn criticism from Republican lawmakers, who have called for additional information about its scope, timing and handling. The New Jersey Globe reported Tuesday that questions have also emerged about when concerns involving Caldwell were first brought forward.
As of Tuesday, the investigation remains ongoing, and no final findings have been announced publicly.
⚠️ The allegations reported against Caldwell have not been established as fact. Caldwell is entitled to due process and a fair investigation.
📰 Garden State News Network will continue to follow the investigation and report verified developments as they become available.