Gov. Kathy Hochul’s top aide slapped with suspension after sexual harassment claims

ALBANY – A top aide to Gov. Kathy Hochul was slapped with a suspension as an investigation was launched into claims he sexually harassed another staffer, The Post has learned.

Hochul press secretary Avi Small is on leave after a staffer accused him of “inappropriate touching,” The New York Times was first to report.

“Governor Hochul has zero tolerance for misconduct by any New York State employee, and has instituted the strongest workplace protections and training policies in State history,” Hochul spokesperson Anthony Hogrebe wrote in a statement.

“While we cannot comment on an open investigation, as soon as a complaint was brought to the Chamber the employee in question was placed on leave.”

Small has been a long-time member of Hochul’s press team. He was a deputy press secretary before taking over for Hazel Crampton-Hays in mid-2023