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  June 18, 2002
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PROTECTING THE INTEGRITY OF OUR SCHOOLS
By Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg


We are on the verge of opening a new era in managing New York City's public school system. Now more than ever, it's essential for the public to have confidence in the integrity of the school system, otherwise we will put at risk the very management reforms that we have fought so long and so hard to achieve. This week I announced the appointment of Richard J. Condon as Special Commissioner of Investigation for the New York City School System. The Special Commissioner investigates criminal activity, unethical conduct, conflicts of interest, and other wrongdoing occurring within our City's schools.

The special schools investigator plays a vital role in defending our school children, and protecting their right to an education unsullied by illegal, improper, or unethical conduct. Mr. Condon is currently the Police Commissioner's representative to the New York City Civilian Complaint Review Board. Other highlights of his distinguished career in law enforcement include service as the first Deputy Commissioner of the NYPD, Director of Investigation in the Office of the Special Prosecutor in the NYPD, and Commissioner of the State Division of Criminal Justice Services. For a period in 1989 and 1990, he was also New York City's Police Commissioner.

The Office of the Special Commissioner of Investigation was created in June 1990 in response to growing public concern about corruption and misconduct in New York City's schools. The office was given the mandate to investigate criminal activity, unethical conduct, conflicts of interest, and other wrongdoing occurring within the school system. Since its inception, the office's work has led to fundamental reforms that have improved education for literally millions students in New York City. This appointment should ensure everyone involved in the public school system, perhaps most importantly the parents of our 1.1 million school children, that there will be zero tolerance for crime, corruption or conflict of interest in our schools.

As I assume responsibility for the City's schools, my top priority will be to ensure that the environment in which our children learn is free of corruption and criminal or unethical conduct. Mr. Condon possesses the broad investigative experience, personal integrity, and independence necessary for this post. I am confident that he will vigorously promote the integrity of our City's school system and help give our children the educational opportunities they need and deserve.


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