CONCORD, N.H. (AP) - The deputy Rockingham county attorney who has been on paid leave since the start of an investigation into his boss’s management of that office has resigned.
Deputy County Attorney Tom Reid submitted his resignation Friday to acting Rockingham County Attorney James Boffetti.
New Hampshire Attorney General Joseph Foster said Friday that Reid was not the target of the criminal investigation of County Attorney Jim Reams and there is no evidence of criminal wrongdoing by him.
Reid, through his lawyer, said the “exhaustive investigation included all aspects of the office over a span of 15 years.
“The manner in which the investigation has been handled has taken a significant toll on my family,” Reid said. “I also recognize that a continued suspension with pay is unfair to the taxpayers of Rockingham County.”
Reid’s attorney, Brian Quirk, said he could not elaborate when asked whether Reid’s statements are criticizing the joint state-federal investigation.
Reid’s resignation was effective immediately.
Foster stripped Reams of his prosecutorial authority Nov. 6, at the outset of the investigation. Prosecutors have not released details of the investigation, saying only that it involves alleged discriminatory acts and issues surrounding a federally-funded program.
Reams was slated to return to court Tuesday in another bid for reinstatement, but both sides have agreed to postpone that hearing until March.
In his letter of resignation, Reid did not indicate why he was resigning or what he would do next. He had been employed by the county for 17 years.
“I have always been dedicated to ensuring that justice was done,” Reid stated, in his letter of resignation. “At this time, and under the present circumstances, I resign as deputy Rockingham County Attorney.”
Reid told Boffetti he would be available to answer questions to ensure a smooth transition.
Foster said that Reid has cooperated with investigators and he expects him to continue to do so.
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