LEVY AIDE SUSPENDED IN SEX OFFENDER FLAP

Newsday/Rick Brand

Photo Source: Newsday

Suffolk probation director John Desmond was hit with a 10-day suspension, without pay,recently from County Executive Steve Levy for improperly urging the early release of sexualoffenders last spring, according to Levy aides.  But Laura Ahearn, a victim right’s advocatewho first publicly complained about the issue, said Levy’s response is not strong enough andDesmond should be removed as head of the $42.7-million-a-year agency and placed in a less sensitivepost.  Desmond, a 38-year department veteran who has headed probation since 2004, wassuspended Oct. 11-22, which will cost him $5,070.