Alexis Richards
Role at the time: Communications director for the New York attorney general
Defended or excused
Statement summary
Richards says the office has contacted the district attorney, the complainant's lawyer and prospective outside counsel. She says the investigation remains independent and guided by facts and law.
“Since then, OAG has spoken with the Tompkins County District Attorney, Jane Doe’s attorney, and several candidates for outside counsel to support the investigation. The DA has agreed to cooperate, and OAG remains committed to a thorough and independent investigation guided only by the facts and the law.”
Open source (opens in a new tab)James seeks outside counsel for Cornell investigationDirect responses by Siegel, Quinn, Komatireddy, Richards and Smoker
Original reporting quotes critics and spokespeople on the search for outside counsel. The office confirms a search and discussions, not a completed appointment.
Archived copy (opens in a new tab)Why we used this label
The matter under scrutiny is James's appointment and whether it can deliver an independent investigation. Richards says the office remains committed to a thorough and independent inquiry, which supports the appointment's stated purpose.