Irondequoit Town Board Refers Supervisor Andrae Evans for Criminal Investigation
IRONDEQUOIT, N.Y. — The Irondequoit Town Board has referred Town Supervisor Andrae Evans to the Monroe County District Attorney’s Office for a criminal investigation following the findings of an independent inquiry into allegations of sexual harassment and retaliation against town staff.
The board made the announcement Tuesday after Evans issued a statement Friday apologizing for any “perceived misconduct.”
An independent investigation conducted by Nearpass & Koegel PLLC determined there was sufficient evidence to substantiate claims of harassment and retaliation by Evans. A secondary review by Mancuso Brightman PLLC confirmed the findings, concluding that Evans’ conduct violated the Town of Irondequoit’s anti-harassment policies, as well as provisions of state and federal employment laws, including the New York State Human Rights Law and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
In response to the findings, the Town Board has taken several actions, including:
A letter of Reprimand and Call for Resignation: On Jan. 16, the Town Board issued a formal letter of reprimand to Evans, urging his immediate resignation.
Appointment of New Legal Representation: The board has retained new legal counsel to represent the town moving forward.
Resolution for Censure: A resolution to formally censure Evans will be considered at a special Town Board meeting scheduled for Feb. 20 at 7 p.m.
Review and Strengthening of Workplace Policies: The board has committed to reassessing and reinforcing policies related to workplace behavior, harassment, and reporting procedures.
Support for Affected Staff: Measures, including counseling services and workplace protections, will be implemented to ensure affected employees feel safe and respected in their professional roles.
Additionally, the Board says they will form a special subcommittee consisting of board members, department heads and town staff—excluding Evans—to address the harm caused and develop strategies for improving communication and workplace relationships. They also pledged “increased transparency and accountability” and plans to open office hours for staff—town board members will schedule ongoing open office hours for staff to share concerns and suggestions for improvement.
The board, Tuesday, said they referred the investigation’s findings to the Monroe County District Attorney’s Office for further review and potential criminal proceedings.
Monroe County District Attorney Sandra Doorley confirmed her office’s involvement in the case.
“Following a referral from the Irondequoit Town Board and the Irondequoit Police Department, the Monroe County District Attorney’s Office will review the current findings and conduct an outside investigation to determine if any criminal charges or penalties are appropriate,” Doorley said in a statement. “Additionally, my office will consider removal proceedings pursuant to Public Officers Law §36.”
Evans, in response to the investigation and board actions, defended his position and denied any wrongdoing.
“I have always served the people of Irondequoit with integrity and respect,” Evans said in a statement Tuesday evening. “I categorically deny the allegations against me and will fully cooperate with any investigations to ensure that the truth prevails.”
The special Town Board meeting on Feb. 20 will provide an opportunity for further public discussion and deliberation. Meanwhile, the community awaits further updates from the Monroe County District Attorney’s Office regarding any potential legal actions.
Under state law, one elected body cannot remove another elected official. However, the district attorney’s office can investigate allegations of misconduct—whether or not they involve criminal activity—and petition appellate judges of the state Supreme Court for the official’s removal.
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