By Brian McCready, Milford Bureau Chief
bmccready@nhregister.com / Twitter: @nhrbmccready

MILFORD — Board of Police Commissioners member Anthony Candido’s attorney said Wednesday it’s “outrageous” his client was placed on administrative leave from his chief judicial marshal position in December simply for “hugging” a co-worker.

“If it’s against the law to hug someone, they should put a sign up in the courthouse saying hugging is not allowed,” said Candido’s attorney, Hugh F. Keefe of New Haven.

A Judicial Branch court operations spokeswoman declined to respond to Keefe’s “hugging” comments Wednesday.

This is the first time Keefe has specifically elaborated on the sexual harassment allegations that were filed against Candido by a co-worker in late November.

Candido, 69, of Milford, was placed on administrative leave without pay Dec. 2 because of an on-the-job complaint of sexual harassment, which is still being investigated by the Judicial Branch Court Operations, a spokeswoman said Wednesday.

Initially, Candido was placed on administrative leave without pay, but after a week, the Judicial Branch allowed Candido to use his accrued vacation time.

Candido’s accrued vacation time expired Wednesday, and beginning today he will once again be on leave without pay while the investigation continues, Judicial Branch spokeswoman Rhonda Hebert said Wednesday.

Keefe blasted Judicial Branch officials Wednesday for not paying Candido while their investigation continues.

“It’s outrageous to suspend a public servant who has devoted so much of his life to public service and law enforcement,” Keefe said.

“They wouldn’t treat a judge like that. It’s disgraceful.” Continued...

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Candido has worked for the state since Aug. 31, 1981, and was appointed chief judicial marshal for the Waterbury Judicial District on June 1, 2001.

His annual salary is $79,061.

Candido, who is also the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities chairman, was ordered not to enter any Judicial Branch work location, and to turn in his badge, identification card, equipment and keys.

Candido learned of the Judicial Branch’s sexual harassment investigation from a letter he received Dec. 2.

The letter states individuals are placed on administrative leave without pay in cases where there is a “reliable report of serious misconduct while on duty.”

Candido has been a popular person in the city for his numerous charitable works, but a lightning rod of controversy politically.

Candido, a Democrat, was blocked by his own party from reappointment to the police commission in 2008.

Candido has received numerous civic and charitable honors and recognitions.

Call Brian McCready at 203-789-5719 and follow him on Twitter @nhrbmccready. To receive breaking news first, simply text the word NHNEWS to 22700. *Msg & Data Rates May Apply. Text HELP for help. Text STOP to cancel.

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