Hochul aide accused of sexual harassment was focus of prior behavior probe: report

The investigation into Small's treatment of junior staff did not result in a human resources violation, Politico reported, citing another person familiar with the outcome. That source reportedly told Politico that Hochul had inadvertently created a system in which allegations quickly led to serious probes that could tarnish a subject's reputation.

Law firm Calcagni & Kanefsky reportedly conducted interviews with Hochul's staff regarding Small's conduct. According to Politico, which cited sources, staffers were worried when they learned an expansion of deputy secretaries' responsibilities would mean Small would work more closely with underlings.

Politico reported that several staffers met with human resources after the conclusion of the 2024 investigation to ask about the lack of information on the probe's outcome. The staffers were reportedly encouraged not to discuss the allegations against Small. Additionally, multiple sources reportedly told Politico that there was information given to human resources about Small cornering a subordinate in a supply closet and questioning them.

Small was recently placed on leave over an allegation that he inappropriately touched a staffer during an office retreat in Albany on June 16, according to reports. Multiple outlets said that the governor's office claimed action was taken against Small shortly after the complaint was filed.

Hochul's office did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital's request for comment, which was submitted on July 4. Fox News Digital was also unable to get in contact with Small.