Governor Rell Appoints New Deputy Commissioner

for Internal Affairs at Connecticut State Police

            Governor M. Jodi Rell today announced the appointment of longtime state official Linda Yelmini as Deputy Commissioner for Internal Affairs at the Department of Public Safety.

            The appointment of Yelmini, who has been serving as Commissioner of the Department of Administrative Services (DAS), follows the conclusion of a review of the Connecticut State Police Internal Affairs unit conducted by members of the New York State Police. That review uncovered serious lapses in procedure and uneven treatment of personnel.

            “Commissioner Yelmini is an experienced attorney who is both well-versed in administrative law and well-prepared for this challenge,” Governor Rell said. “She will bring a fresh perspective to what the report indicates is a system in need of broad-based change. I have faith in her ability to challenge the status quo and ensure that the needed changes are made.”

            The report included a series of recommendations for improving the operation of the Internal Affairs unit. On Friday, Governor Rell announced the formation of an eight-member special commission to oversee the implementation of additional reforms. Outgoing State Representative Robert Farr of West Hartford will chair that commission, which will also include Public Safety Commissioner Leonard Boyle as an ex-officio member.

Commissioner Yelmini was appointed head of the Department of Administrative Services in December 2004. She had previously served as the state’s Director of Labor Relations at the Office of Policy and Management (OPM). Yelmini served as Assistant Director of Labor Relations from 1990 to 1997.

            “Commissioner Yelmini built a record of success at DAS by implementing important improvements,” Governor Rell said. “I have full confidence that she will bring the same drive to the Department of Public Safety as it strives to serve the people of our state better.”

Yelmini graduated from the University of Connecticut in 1972. She received a master’s degree in business administration from the University of New Haven in 1981 and a law degree from Western New England School of Law in 1985.