The investigation into what turned out to be false drug possession allegations made by state representative Denise Andrews, D-Orange, against her Republican opponent in the November election is now under review by the state attorney general.
Democrat Denise Andrews, left, is seen with her Republican opponent Susannah Whipps LeeATHOL — An investigation about what turned out to be false drug possession allegations made by state representative Denise Andrews, D-Orange, against her Republican opponent in the November election is now under review by the state attorney general.
Athol police Chief Timothy Anderson has confirmed that Attorney General Martha Coakley’s office began their own investigation of the matter last week.
According to a police report, Andrews had told Anderson that she was provided information by a member of the Athol Police Department that her opponent, the Republican Susannah M. Whipps Lee, was in possession of cocaine. Lee is chairman of the Athol Board of Selectmen.
That information turned out to be bogus, and has cast a cloud over the race.
Following a two-week investigation last month, Anderson determined that the Andrews allegation was unfounded and dismissed the matter. His report, dated August 31, exonerated Lee.
Anderson said a second investigation is underway.
The chief says he is trying to determine whether a member of the Athol Police Department fed Andrews the apparently false information.
A police report written by Anderson says the state representative “had information (that Lee) had purchased cocaine” in August.
The report states Andrews said her source “was a current employee of the Athol Police Department and that she would not disclose this person's identity.”
A public record of that Aug. 31 police report shows Andrews’ name blacked out, but an unredacted copy of the report – with Andrews’ name showing – was released, apparently by a police department employee.
Chief Anderson said the unredacted copy could only have been released by a member of the Athol force.
Anderson said he is investigating what appears to be a security breach. He said it is a violation of department policy to release confidential information.
The chief said he is also investigating whether any member of the force, by failing to notify a superior of the apparent transgression, engaged in a coverup.
Richard Schober Jr., of Templeton, is also running against Andrews and Lee as an Independent.
Following the November election, the newly redrawn 2nd Franklin District will include Athol, Orange, Templeton, Erving, Gill, Warwick, New Salem, Petersham, Royalston, Wendell and Precinct A of Belchertown.