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New York City Council
Committee on Oversight and Investigations
Mar 14, 2025
·
10:30 AM
1 hr 43 min
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Summary
A hearing on the Department of Investigation (DOI)'s fiscal year 2026 preliminary budget.
Discussions focused on DOI's budget needs, staffing challenges, recent accomplishments, and proposals to strengthen the department's independence.
Key issues included the two-for-one hiring policy, low salaries affecting staff retention, reliance on forfeiture funds for operational needs, and the need for additional positions.
Features testimony from DOI Commissioner Jocelyn Strauber and the public.
Meeting chapters
Read summaries and watch videos for short segments that matter to you.
Council Member Gale Brewer opens the fiscal 2026 preliminary budget hearing for the Committee on Oversight and Investigations
Council Member Gale Brewer, chair of the Committee on Oversight and Investigations, opens the fiscal year 2026 preliminary budget hearing for the Department of Investigation (DOI). She introduces the purpose …
0:00:44
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177 sec
Introduction and background on DOI's role and principles
Commissioner Jocelyn Strauber provides an overview of the Department of Investigation's role as the city's independent inspector general. She emphasizes DOI's commitment to conducting investigations independently and confidentially, instilling confidence …
0:04:35
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157 sec
Proposals to strengthen DOI's independence
Commissioner Strauber outlines three core proposals to safeguard DOI's independence and protect the agency from potential retaliation. These proposals would require changes in the law to implement. - Establishing a …
0:07:13
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3 min
DOI's accomplishments and statistics for 2024
Commissioner Strauber highlights the Department of Investigation's achievements in 2024, emphasizing the agency's productivity despite challenging conditions and decreased staffing. - DOI made 370 arrests in 2024, a 59% increase …
0:10:30
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153 sec
Notable investigations and prosecutions in 2024
Commissioner Strauber outlines several significant investigations and prosecutions conducted by DOI in 2024, highlighting cases involving high-ranking officials and large-scale fraud. - Arrest of two former high-ranking fire department officials …
0:13:05
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4 min
DOI's fiscal year 2025 and 2026 budget overview
Commissioner Strauber provides an overview of the Department of Investigation's budget for fiscal years 2025 and 2026, detailing the allocation of funds and staffing projections. - The fiscal year 2026 …
0:17:30
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64 sec
Challenges with the city's two-for-one hiring process
Commissioner Strauber explains the difficulties posed by the city's two-for-one hiring process, which significantly impedes DOI's ability to fill critical vacancies and maintain staffing levels. - The two-for-one policy requires …
0:18:33
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72 sec
Staffing and retention issues due to low salaries
Commissioner Strauber highlights the challenges DOI faces in retaining staff due to disproportionately low salaries and limited growth opportunities compared to other entities. - DOI has lost staff at all …
0:19:46
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53 sec
OTPS budget cuts and use of forfeiture funds
Commissioner Strauber explains the impact of Other Than Personal Services (OTPS) budget cuts on DOI and the agency's reliance on forfeiture funds to cover essential expenses. - DOI's OTPS budget …
0:20:40
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71 sec
Delays in capital funding and impact on operations
Commissioner Strauber illustrates how delays in capital funding from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) have forced DOI to use forfeiture funds for critical operational needs. - DOI decided …
0:21:51
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32 sec
Explanation of forfeiture funds and their limitations
Commissioner Strauber provides a comprehensive explanation of forfeiture funds, their sources, usage restrictions, and the limitations DOI faces in relying on these funds for operational needs. - Forfeiture funds come …
0:22:24
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126 sec
New needs requests for fiscal year 2026
Commissioner Strauber outlines the new needs requests submitted by DOI for the fiscal year 2026 January plan, focusing on staffing needs and exemptions from hiring restrictions. - DOI requested an …
0:24:31
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105 sec
Additional requests for the fiscal year 2026 executive plan
Commissioner Strauber details additional funding requests made by DOI for the fiscal year 2026 executive plan, focusing on salary adjustments and additional headcount. - $75,000 requested for salary parity for …
0:26:17
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75 sec
Conclusion: DOI's critical role and need for support
Commissioner Strauber concludes her testimony by emphasizing the unique and critical role of the Department of Investigation in New York City government and the importance of continued support for its …
0:27:33
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40 sec
Council member inquires about DOI's proposals for strengthening independence
Council Member Shekar Krishnan asks Commissioner Strauber about DOI's proposals to strengthen its independence from the executive branch. He specifically inquires about the concept of budgetary independence mentioned in the …
0:28:57
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50 sec
Commissioner Strauber explains models for DOI's budgetary independence
Commissioner Jocelyn E. Strauber outlines various approaches to achieving budgetary independence for the Department of Investigation (DOI). She emphasizes the importance of financial autonomy for the agency's effectiveness and long-term …
0:29:47
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105 sec
Discussion on independence models for investigative offices in other cities
Council Member Krishnan inquires about independence models for inspector general offices in other cities, emphasizing the importance of separating investigative powers from the executive branch. Commissioner Strauber offers to provide …
0:31:32
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89 sec
DOI's reliance on forfeiture funds for budget needs
Council Member Krishnan expresses concern about DOI's reliance on forfeiture proceeds from an old case to fund its operations. Commissioner Strauber explains the current financial situation and the limited nature …
0:33:01
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129 sec
Council Member Brewer emphasizes importance of charter revision testimony
Council Member Gale Brewer discusses the importance of testifying at upcoming charter revision commission hearings. She encourages her colleagues to present the same suggestions she has made to both the …
0:35:14
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39 sec
Discussion of DOI's current budget and staffing levels
Council Member Brewer inquires about the Department of Investigation's current budget and staffing levels, and Commissioner Strauber provides detailed information on headcount and budget trends. - DOI's budgeted headcount for …
0:35:54
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136 sec
Hiring challenges and allocation of new positions at DOI
Council Member Brewer and Commissioner Strauber discuss the challenges in hiring for new positions and how DOI plans to allocate these positions to areas of greatest need. - DOI is …
0:38:13
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166 sec
Overview of the Protest Settlement Unit's structure and responsibilities
Commissioner Strauber provides details on the newly established Protest Settlement Unit, its staffing, and its role in overseeing NYPD's compliance with a settlement related to protest policing. - The unit …
0:41:00
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131 sec
Impact of low staffing on DOI's investigative capabilities
Commissioner Strauber discusses how low staffing levels affect DOI's ability to conduct investigations, particularly proactive work and audits. - No significant complaints have been set aside due to staffing constraints …
0:43:11
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59 sec
Process for selecting protests for review by the Protest Settlement Unit
Commissioner Strauber explains the process for selecting protests to be reviewed by the Protest Settlement Unit as part of the settlement agreement. - A collaborative committee selects two protests for …
0:44:11
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54 sec
Salary ranges for DOI attorneys and investigators
Commissioner Strauber provides information on the current salary ranges for confidential investigators and attorneys at DOI, highlighting competitiveness issues. - Confidential investigator salaries range from $63,900 to $89,500 across three …
0:45:05
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111 sec
Overtime eligibility for DOI staff
Commissioner Strauber explains the overtime eligibility for different positions within DOI and its impact on staffing. - Some investigator titles are overtime eligible, while more senior positions are not - …
0:46:56
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62 sec
Council Member Brewer's closing remarks and invitation for questions
Council Member Gale Brewer concludes the session with closing remarks and invites questions from other council members. - Brewer emphasizes the importance of the commissioner's testimony - She encourages colleagues …
0:47:59
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43 sec
NYCHA corruption investigation and DOI's response
Council Member Chris Banks inquires about the Department of Investigation's approach to addressing fraud and corruption in city agencies, particularly NYCHA. Commissioner Strauber explains that DOI has a dedicated squad …
0:48:41
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92 sec
DOI's NYCHA squad structure and staffing
Commissioner Strauber provides details about the DOI squad responsible for overseeing NYCHA investigations. The discussion reveals the size and importance of this specialized unit within the Department of Investigation. - …
0:50:13
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52 sec
DOI's strategies for high-priority investigations
Commissioner Strauber outlines the Department of Investigation's strategies for handling high-priority investigations, particularly in agencies like NYCHA. She emphasizes the importance of experienced staff, strong relationships, and follow-up procedures. - …
0:51:05
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134 sec
DOI's budget allocation for investigations
Commissioner Strauber explains how the Department of Investigation's budget is allocated to support in-depth investigations. She emphasizes that the majority of the budget is dedicated to staffing for investigative work. …
0:53:20
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63 sec
DOI's budget priorities and requests
Commissioner Strauber outlines the Department of Investigation's key budget priorities and requests, focusing on increasing staff capacity and addressing salary disparities within the agency. - DOI has requested 13 additional …
0:54:23
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67 sec
Council Member Restler praises DOI's work and leadership
Council Member Lincoln Restler opens his remarks by expressing strong appreciation for Commissioner Strauber's leadership of the Department of Investigation (DOI). He commends DOI's rigorous oversight and investigations, particularly in …
0:55:36
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3 min
Discussion on DOI's hiring challenges and two-for-one policy
Council Member Restler and Commissioner Strauber discuss the significant challenges DOI faces in maintaining adequate staffing levels. They focus on the impact of the two-for-one hiring policy and the lengthy …
0:58:39
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117 sec
Council Member Restler advocates for DOI budget independence
Council Member Restler expresses strong support for granting DOI greater budget independence, similar to the model used for the Campaign Finance Board (CFB). He argues that this change is necessary …
1:00:36
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55 sec
Q&A on DOI's use of on-loan employees from other agencies
Council Member Restler and Commissioner Strauber discuss the use of on-loan employees from other agencies to supplement DOI's staffing. They explore the challenges and current status of these arrangements. - …
1:01:32
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171 sec
Q&A on DOI's access to agency email servers
Council Member Restler inquires about DOI's access to email servers of various city agencies. Commissioner Strauber explains the current situation and the process for accessing emails when direct access is …
1:04:23
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68 sec
Discussion on KPMG contract and monitorship models for oversight
Council Member Restler and Commissioner Strauber discuss the KPMG contract for overseeing asylum seeker-related expenditures and the effectiveness of monitorship models in expanding DOI's oversight capacity. - Strauber explains that …
1:05:33
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3 min
Exploration of additional tools and resources for DOI oversight
Council Member Restler asks Commissioner Strauber about any additional tools, resources, or areas of authority that could be provided to DOI to enhance oversight of the current administration. - Strauber …
1:09:00
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92 sec
DOI's overtime allocation and spending
Council Member Brewer inquires about the Department of Investigation's overtime allocation and spending. Commissioner Strauber provides details on the current fiscal year's overtime expenditure and projections for the total spend. …
1:10:31
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72 sec
Squad 5 operations and staffing levels
Council Member Brewer inquires about Squad 5, which is responsible for investigations into elected officials. Commissioner Strauber provides information on the squad's current staffing and capacity to perform investigations. - …
1:11:43
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130 sec
Asset forfeiture funds and their impact on DOI's budget
Council Member Brewer inquires about asset forfeiture funds and their impact on the Department of Investigation's budget. Commissioner Strauber provides information on current forfeiture balances and the potential impact of …
1:13:53
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145 sec
KPMG and K2 monitorships for asylum seekers and borough-based jails
Council Member Brewer inquires about the KPMG and K2 monitorships for asylum seekers and borough-based jails. Commissioner Strauber clarifies the roles of these entities and provides information on contract terms. …
1:16:19
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78 sec
Reporting and public information from monitorships
Council Member Brewer inquires about the reporting process and public information resulting from monitorships. Commissioner Strauber explains the regular reporting process and plans for public disclosure. - DOI receives regular …
1:17:37
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113 sec
NYPD Office of the Inspector General staffing and attrition
Council Member Brewer inquires about the current budget, headcount, and attrition rates of the NYPD Office of the Inspector General (OIG). Commissioner Strauber provides details on staffing challenges and productivity. …
1:19:30
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90 sec
Role of on-loan NYPD detectives in DOI investigations
Council Member Brewer inquires about the number and role of on-loan NYPD detectives in DOI investigations. Commissioner Strauber explains the composition and functions of the detective squad. - The detective …
1:21:01
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69 sec
Discussion on DOI's background check process and improvements
Council Member Brewer inquires about the Department of Investigation's background check process for city employees. Commissioner Strauber explains the improvements made, including reducing the backlog from 6,500 to 64 cases …
1:22:10
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145 sec
Training programs for city employees on corruption prevention
Council Member Brewer inquires about the effectiveness of online training courses for city employees on corruption prevention. Commissioner Strauber discusses the department's approach to both in-person and online training programs. …
1:24:35
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178 sec
Updates on DOI's policy and procedure recommendation portal
Council Member Brewer inquires about the Department of Investigation's policy and procedure recommendation portal. Commissioner Strauber provides information on the portal's update frequency and the department's focus on policy recommendations. …
1:27:33
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100 sec
Discussion on city marshals, their appointments, and role in evictions
Council Member Brewer inquires about city marshals, their appointment process, and their role in evictions. Commissioner Strauber provides information on the current number of marshals and eviction trends. - There …
1:29:13
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161 sec
Revenue from marshal fees and eviction trends
Council Member Brewer and Commissioner Strauber discuss the revenue generated from marshal fees and the trends in evictions. They also touch on efforts to keep people in their homes. - …
1:31:55
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38 sec
DOI's complaint handling process and prioritization
Council Member Brewer inquires about how the Department of Investigation handles and prioritizes the large number of complaints it receives. Commissioner Strauber explains the process for evaluating and following up …
1:32:34
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137 sec
Increase in arrests resulting from DOI investigations
Council Member Brewer inquires about the recent increase in arrests resulting from DOI investigations. Commissioner Strauber explains the factors contributing to this increase and the department's focus on impactful cases. …
1:34:51
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103 sec
Council Member Brewer questions DOI Commissioner on federal referrals, investigator training, and budget process
Council Member Gale Brewer engages in a Q&A session with DOI Commissioner Jocelyn E. Strauber, focusing on the department's operations, including case referrals to federal agencies and the training program …
1:36:33
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3 min
Testimony by Christopher Leon Johnson on Department of Investigation's Oversight
Christopher Leon Johnson calls for the Department of Investigation (DOI) to investigate Brad Lander and Adrienne Adams for alleged misuse of government time and resources for mayoral campaigns. He expresses …
1:41:04
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128 sec