A high-ranking New York State Police official has been suspended without pay as the agency asks the FBI to take over an investigation involving him.
A news release issued Sunday, Oct. 25, confirmed that Lt. Col. Jared W. Duffy had been suspended without pay.
FBI to take over investigation
“The New York State Police has asked the Federal Bureau of Investigation - Albany to adopt the case involving Lieutenant Colonel Jared Duffy. Any further inquiries concerning this case should be directed to the FBI,” the statement read.
State Police have not publicly disclosed the reason for Duffy’s suspension or provided additional details about the investigation.
The FBI in Albany on Monday acknowledged the request and provided a written statement:
"The New York State Police contacted FBI Albany
last week to request we adopt this investigation. As this is an ongoing investigation, we will not be commenting further."
What led to Duffy's suspension?
According to media reports, Sunday's announcement came days after law enforcement searched Duffy's home in Colonie, Albany County.
The Albany Times Union reported that the investigation began with a tip to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Citing multiple police sources, the newspaper reported that the investigation centered on sexually explicit images of children.
The Times Union also reported that Duffy passed a polygraph examination last week. According to the newspaper, Duffy's brother, a Buffalo-based lawyer, said it appeared that Duffy's email account and dormant X account had recently been hacked and could be connected to the investigation.
State Police have not publicly confirmed those details. No charges had been filed against Duffy as of Sunday afternoon, according to media reports.
Who is Lt. Col. Jared W. Duffy?
Duffy serves as assistant deputy superintendent and chief of staff for the New York State Police. His official biography says he oversees special projects, planning and research for the superintendent.
Duffy has been with the agency since 2002. He holds master's degrees in criminal justice, public administration and general studies, as well as a bachelor's degree in biology.
This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: Top NY State Police official suspended as FBI takes over investigation
