Assemblyman Looks to Protect Taxpayer Dollars from Abuse in Wake of Bencivengo Trial
Assemblyman Daniel Benson (D-Mercer/Middlesex) on Monday called for an Attorney General investigation of Hamilton Township’s government and school district to ensure that taxpayer funds are being spent wisely and legally in the wake of sworn testimony delivered during Hamilton Mayor John Bencivegno’s trial.
“I believe it is imperative that there be a thorough investigation of the township and school district to ensure that those who are entrusted with taxpayer monies to oversee and operate our township and local school system have done so according to state and local laws” said Benson. “It is especially important to know whether officials’ actions have been beyond reproach and held to high ethical standards.”
In doing so, Benson sent a letter to Attorney General Jeffrey Chiesa today asking for an investigation of Hamilton Township, including a review of all records and dealings that current officials have had regarding consultants and vendors working with and without authorized contracts.
The request was prompted by sworn witness testimony delivered in Bencivengo’s trial, which led to his conviction for taking bribes from a health insurance broker in exchange for his help in influencing the procurement of school board contracts.
A full copy of Benson’s letter can be viewed here.