Domestic violence causes Putnam sheriff’s deputy to leave department

CARMEL – Putnam County Sheriff’s Deputy Kevin Osika’s career with the Sheriff’s Department ends on Friday as a result of a disciplinary settlement that includes the loss of 60 days’ pay following his arrest last February on domestic violence-related charges. 

In the interim, Sheriff Brian Hess has requested the Putnam Legislature to initiate an ethics investigation into Osika’s wife, Legislator Erin Crowley, alleging that she attempted to pressure him into retaining her husband and used her legislative authority to interfere with Sheriff’s Office purchases and budget transfers. 

Following the arrest, Osika initially received a 30-day suspension without pay which is the maximum allowed under disciplinary rules.

Dutchess County handled Osika’s criminal case after Putnam prosecutors recused themselves because of their familiarity with Osika and Crowley. The Poughkeepsie proceedings were sealed, and the outcome was not made public. 

Hess’ letter sent to the nine-member county legislature outlines a series of allegations against Crowley, who is employed by Congressman Michael Lawler (R, NY-17) as his deputy district director in addition to representing constituents in the greater Mahopac area.

Hess alleged that Crowley, who chairs the Audit and Administration Committee, attempted to influence the disciplinary proceedings involving her husband by subjecting Sheriff’s Office expenditures to unusual scrutiny.

Hess told Mid-Hudson News: “The sheriff’s office will not allow political pressure, personal influence or the withholding of necessary resources to dictate whether a deputy remains fit to serve. Such a decision must rest on the facts, the applicable standards, and a fair disciplinary process. The integrity of this office and the safety of Putnam County’s residents are not bargaining chips.”

Hess added: “Safety of the residents of Putnam County will not be compromised in any way, shape or form.”

According to Hess’ letter, Crowley has maintained that her questions were legitimate exercises of fiscal oversight and requests for technical clarification.

Crowley has not issued any comment regarding the sheriff’s allegations or department’s decision.