State Ethics Commission Closes Investigation into Former Senator

ALBANY – The state Ethics Commission has wrapped up its inquiry into former state Senator Jeff Klein, concluding that it could not substantiate claims made against him regarding a forced kiss on a staff member nearly a decade ago.

With a 5-2 vote, the Committee on Government Ethics and Lobbying found there was “sufficient evidence” that Klein kissed Erica Vladimer, a former staff member, “without her consent” in 2015, according to the commission’s report released on Friday. However, due to several vacancies in the commission, a minimum of six votes was necessary to formally substantiate the allegations.

An administrative judge also determined there was insufficient evidence to support the claim that Klein kissed Vladimer.

Klein had lost his Bronx seat in 2018 after he requested the ethics commission to investigate the matter, and he is now treating this decision as a victory. His attorney, Richard Portale, expressed gratitude that Klein’s reputation is finally being restored.

“This finding confirms that the charges against Senator Klein were without merit,” Portale stated.

Conversely, Vladimer, who founded Harassment Free New York and advocates for better protections against sexual harassment in state government, criticized the commission’s decision as “unacceptable and completely pathetic.”

“I should have felt vindicated and affirmed in my decision. Instead, I am furious and disappointed,” she expressed, adding that despite her efforts for accountability over seven years, state employees require more from their public officials.

Administrative Judge Joseph Neuhaus, who assessed the case, acknowledged the lack of robust evidence and described Klein’s acquittal as a “close call.” He noted there were potential witnesses, including Klein’s girlfriend, present at the bar that night the incident allegedly occurred.

The report pointed out “inconsistencies” in Vladimer’s account and highlighted the absence of other harassment claims against Klein, leading Neuhaus to conclude that the allegations lacked a substantive basis.

Klein, who once led the influential Independent Democratic Conference, found himself at the center of controversy by collaborating with Republicans for control of the state senate.

“This matter is now closed,” stated COELIG Executive Director Sanford Berland, emphasizing that the commission acted in accordance with the law and its regulations throughout the proceedings.