Public Information Sought in Alleged Corruption Scandal

The New Britain Progressive is seeking public information from City Hall related to the alleged corruption scandal involving a former city administrator.

Zeena Tawfik, former head of community services under the administration of Republican Mayor Erin Stewart, according to a report in the New Britain Herald, was arrested for allegedly embezzling $7,141.55 in grant moneys that were given to the city, “to fund substance abuse and bullying prevention programs within the city.”

While Stewart has sought to distance herself from the alleged scandal, Tawfik has been called a close friend of Stewart who was hired to head community services under Stewart.

The Progressive is seeking a copy of the arrest warrant reportedly issued for Tawfik and any police reports related to the former city administrator.

In addition, the Progressive is seeking records of the financial transactions of the programs of the city’s community services during Tawfik’s employment with the city.

Finally, the Progressive is seeking a copy of Tawfik’s personnel file and documents related to the process by which she was hired and received any promotions.

Tawfik’s apparently former title is listed in the most recent city budget as “Community Services Administrator,” and, “Community Services Program Manager,” with a salary of $89,534.