New Britain seeks criminal probe of Erin Stewart spending
CT Insider • • nation
Key Points:
- New Britain Mayor Bobby Sanchez has referred allegations of fraudulent spending by former Mayor Erin Stewart to state and federal prosecutors, based on a report detailing Stewart's city credit card purchases from 2016 to 2025.
- The investigation alleges Stewart used city funds for personal expenses including maternity clothing, jewelry, parties, expensive meals, household items, and campaign events, totaling $207,076, with $123,018 lacking supporting documentation.
- In response, Stewart has suspended her gubernatorial campaign and endorsed her opponent, Sen. Ryan Fazio, citing a desire to step back from public life to address the allegations.
- The report highlights a pattern of behavior violating public trust, with Stewart reimbursing only a small fraction of the charges and using vague budget categories to disguise personal expenses.
- Mayor Sanchez stated the city will pursue legal action to recover funds, emphasizing the seriousness of the abuse of taxpayer money and the need for accountability and ethical leadership.