Gov. M. Jodi Rell's new statement on the resignation of Joseph Marie

Governor M. Jodi Rell today issued the following statement on the letter of resignation and stipulated agreement signed by former Department of Transportation (DOT) Commissioner Joseph F. Marie:

"My office was contacted by a person representing a DOT employee who had alleged inappropriate behavior by the Commissioner. Legal counsel for the Governor's Office conducted a preliminary inquiry into the allegation.

"No formal complaint of any kind was ever filed and no formal investigation was ever conducted.

"However, at the conclusion of the preliminary inquiry, Commissioner Marie was offered an opportunity to resign and he did so. He also signed a stipulated agreement that required him to return all state equipment, including computers, cell phones and cars; restricted his access to all state facilities; and barred him from contacting or criticizing any state employees or administration officials.

"I moved expeditiously in seeking this resignation - first and foremost, to end any alleged inappropriate and unacceptable behavior, and also to resolve the situation in a way that was respectful to the employee involved and all of the people affected, including innocent family members."