BOSTON – Cape and Islands State Senator Julian Cyr (D-Truro) says he supports the investigation into the sexual misconduct allegations levied against former Senate President Stanley Rosenberg’s husband.
The Massachusetts Senate voted to have the Senate Ethics Committee investigate the accusations surrounding Bryon Hefner. The Senate Monday night also voted to authorize the committee to hire a special investigator to conduct the probe.
“There can be no tolerance in the Senate for sexual harassment, and we must ensure that no one who serves, works, or does business in the Massachusetts State House feels unsafe, coerced, or silenced,” Cyr said in a statement. “I support the investigation by the Senate Ethics Committee to determine if Stan Rosenberg violated any rules of the Senate, and I am encouraged by the intent to hire an outside investigator.”
The Senate elected Democratic Senate Majority Leader Harriette Chandler to serve as acting Senate president during the investigation.
“I am confident that Senator Chandler will perform the duties of Acting Senate President with integrity and professionalism during this unexpectedly tumultuous time,” Cyr added. “The independent investigation by the thorough, proper, and prompt, and I am hopeful that, together, with the criminal investigation Attorney General Maura Healey and Suffolk District Attorney Daniel Conley are prepared to open, we will be able to address these allegations and get to the truth of the matter.”
Rosenberg announced earlier Monday he would take a leave of absence from his responsibilities as Senate president. He has not been accused of wrongdoing.
The Boston Globe reported last week several men had accused the Hefner of sexual assault or harassment.
The investigation will focus on whether Rosenberg knew about Hefner’s alleged behavior, or if Hefner had any clout when it came to matters before the chamber.
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