Former Casino Control Commission Chairperson Anne Golden has a plea agreement. The Daily News is reporting that an agreement was signed on December 19, where Golden acknowledges that there is enough evidence to prove that she stole nearly $300,000 of Commission money between 2015-2018. Sentencing is set for January 14. The deal says prior to sentencing all of Golden's assets will be identified and she has agreed to give up all forfeitable assets and forfeiture of a jeep bought in march 2016. It is unlikely golden will see any jail time but will feel severe financial hardship.
The Department of Human Services (D.H.S) investigation of the death of 4-year-old Aaron Benjamin, Jr. in October 2019 shows that internal staffing changes are needed at the department, along with "intensive training." The department did not release a document with the results of the audit and the investigation. Instead, D.H.S. issued a press release. "D.H.S has begun to restructure its child protective services system including personnel changes coupled with efforts to provide additional training and supervision and accountability." The audit showed staff followed policies and procedures and did not uncover wanton negligence in the Aaron Benjamin Jr. case. However, as a result of the audit, disciplinary actions have been taken to address deficiencies by some staff. Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) regulations and protected personnel information prevent the department from sharing additional details.