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First on FOX61: Hartford schools COO placed on leave pending investigation

HARTFORD – The Chief Operating Officer for Hartford Public Schools has been placed on administrative leave. A Hartford Public Schools spokesperson confirmed to ...

HARTFORD – The Chief Operating Officer for Hartford Public Schools has been placed on administrative leave.

A Hartford Public Schools spokesperson confirmed to FOX61 that Dr. Jose Colon-Rivas was placed on administrative leave, effective February 20, “pending the outcome of an administrative investigation.”

Sources close to the board of education said the investigation is related to misappropriation of computers and tablets intended for student use. However, when asked, the board of education would not confirm or deny that.

The board of education refused to comment on the exact cause of the investigation.

Sources said the security cameras in the board of education building have not been operating since summer 2018. At this point, Hartford Police have not been contacted, according to a Hartford Schools spokesperson.

The board of education also confirmed the recently-hired executive director of internal investigations and security, Alex Rios, resigned. Rios' last day was February 22. It is unknown if his resignation is related to the investigation.

Dr. Colon-Rivas’ salary is $173,000.

According to his biography on the Hartford Public Schools website, Dr. Colon-Rivas is "responsible for supporting the advancement of the district’s strategic direction, overseeing the day-to-day operations of Hartford Public Schools and ensuring the highest level of resource accountability." The HPS website said the COO oversees facilities, food and nutrition, transportation, school choice, and athletics.

This is a developing story, stay with FOX61 News for updates.

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