STAMFORD, CT – The City of Stamford announced plans today to conduct an internal review of all City purchasing and procurement practices. While the City has controls in place to protect taxpayer assets, when there is a breach in these controls, there is clearly an obligation to review and upgrade city processes. 

The City’s internal auditor, Teresa Viscariello will immediately begin a methodical review of City purchasing and procurement.

In announcing the review, Mayor David Martin said, “We have zero tolerance for any abuse of taxpayer money. This audit is necessary to ensure that this is in fact an isolated instance of criminal behavior.”

Director of Administration Michael Handler added, “The City’s review will ensure that this type of theft cannot happen again.  Additionally, we will review our hiring practices, our management and oversight of employees, as well as our internal controls.  The financial integrity of the City is of paramount importance and we will do everything possible to strengthen safeguards. The City stands ready to provide additional training and to take all appropriate disciplinary actions, where appropriate.”

The review comes in response to the recent discovery of theft of city property by a city employee. City marina supervisor Sean Elumba’s employment has been terminated with the City and there is an ongoing criminal investigation.