The Suffolk County District Attorney’s office has been fined $5,000 for violating conflict of interest laws during the 2022 election campaign. The violation stemmed from a press statement released by DA Kevin Hayden’s office that discredited his opponent Ricardo Arroyo, who was facing sexual assault allegations at the time. The statement, which was widely circulated by the media, suggested that the allegations against Arroyo were unfounded.
Hayden admitted to the violation and waived his right to a hearing. He said that the statement was written by his spokesperson without his knowledge or participation, but that he takes responsibility for his office’s actions.
Arroyo, who lost the election to Hayden, has praised the Ethics Commission for holding him accountable for his actions. He said that Hayden betrayed the public’s trust and illegally used the Suffolk County District Attorney’s office to win his campaign.
Hayden’s current term as Suffolk County DA is up in 2026. Arroyo is currently serving as District 5 City Councilor.
