The internal investigation grew out of the discovery of pornographic emails earlier this year, during Kane's review of her predecessor's handling of the Jerry Sandusky child sex abuse case.
"This behavior violated computer and email policies and on an even more troubling level showed a fundamental disregard and disrespect for people who work in OAG and for Pennsylvanians," Kane said in a statement released Wednesday.
"I am determined to put an end to this behavior."
Kane spokesman Renee Martin said the investigation of the initial email threads uncovered this year showed participation by 61 current employees at all levels in the agency, and in some cases right up through this summer, when the emails' existence was confirmed through media Right To Know Law requests.
Of those disciplined, Wednesday's report stated six have been terminated; two resigned in advance of receiving discipline; and 11 have been suspended without pay with the ability to return.
The suspensions ran from three to 10 days, Martin said.
The remaining 42, Martin said, have been given a formal written reprimand, required to take sexual harassment counseling, or both.
None of the violations rose to the level of a criminal offense, Martin said.
The 61 staffers caught account for about 8 percent of OAG's 730-plus employees.
Martin said the range of disciplinary actions taken were based on an evaluation of factors including the volume of offensive material found in one's queue; the content; and their position within the office.
Full Article & Source:
Attorney General Kathleen Kane disciplines 61 in pornographic email case
See Also:
Kane's office begins punishing workers in porn email scandal: report
Pennsylvania Supreme Court suspends Justice Seamus McCaffery
Judicial board to review McCaffery e-mails complaint
Porn Email Claims Could Trigger Discipline For Pa. Justice
It's ridiculous that so many would be involved. I'm glad she followed through to all of them.
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