Cuomo launches broader probe into NY state fair

SYRACUSE — State Attorney General Andrew Cuomo has issued subpoenas to New York State Fair contractors as part of a broad investigation into patronage and wasteful spending.

The civil investigation announced Tuesday comes less than a month after New York’s inspector general alleged that a former fair director diverted thousands of dollars for personal use and nearly $1 million was misspent during his tenure. Those findings about Peter Cappuccilli Jr., who stepped down in 2005, were forwarded to Cuomo for a criminal investigation, which is ongoing. Cappuccilli’s lawyer didn’t return a call for comment Tuesday.

In the civil probe, investigators will assess contracting, hiring, and other fair management practices.

State Agriculture Commissioner Patrick Hooker says he and fair officials have reformed the operation and will cooperate with investigators.