Politics & Government

Smith on Rape Case: Politics Won't Shake Focus on Investigation

The sheriff addresses another one of Putnam's leaders.

The tension between two of Putnam's top officials now involves a third: County Executive MaryEllen Odell.

Sheriff Donald B. Smith and District Attorney Adam Levy have engaged in a public dispute that started with the arrest of a man who has personal ties to the latter. That man, Alexandru Hossu, is accused of raping a 12-year-old girl. 

The disagreement surrounds the connection between Levy and Hossu, who lived with the DA for a period of time. Smith said Hossu's address at the time of arrest was 70 Indian Wells Road—Levy's Southeast home. The DA said that information was "erroneous" and pointed to a Clock Tower Commons space as Hossu's residence. 

Find out what's happening in Southeast-Brewsterwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The Southeast building inspector recently visited the Clock Tower suite, and found the office was being used as living quarters.

A recent story in the Putnam County Courier stated that Odell is calling for the Sheriff's Office to step aside. Patch referenced that report in a previous post. Smith then issued the following statement to this news agency:

Find out what's happening in Southeast-Brewsterwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

By inserting herself into this law enforcement matter, Ms. Odell is guilty of what she is accusing others of doing: she is playing politics in this case. The Sheriff’s Office is focused on fully investigating the alleged criminal wrongdoing in this case and will not allow itself to be distracted from its professional work by the officious intermeddling of persons whose desire to politicize the case is blatantly obvious.

Attempts by Patch to reach Odell Thursday and Friday were unsuccessful.

Levy is the son of television personality Judge Judy. He is serving his second term as DA. 

Here are the links to some related stories: 

  • Update: Southeast Man with Personal Ties to DA Charged in Rape of 12-Year-Old Girl
  • DA: Sheriff Provided 'Erroneous' Address in Rape Case
  • Levy: Putnam Sheriff's Allegations Are 'Unfounded'
  • Building Inspector: Clock Tower Suite Was Being Used as Living Space


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