FBI search of Lee Police Department centers on Chief Buffis

LEE – An FBI investigation, leading to the search of the Lee Police Department, appears to be zeroing in on Police Chief Joseph Buffis.

Agents of the FBI, assisted by State Troopers assigned to the Berkshire County District Attorney’s office, investigated the offices of the Lee Police Department and the home of Chief Buffis on Monday, Nov. 19.

Witnesses of the investigation at the police station have described it as being akin to a raid.

“Special agents of the FBI from the Springfield office and state troopers assigned to the Berkshire County District Attorney’s office conducted an investigation at the Lee police Department on November 19,” said Mark Karangekis, supervisor at the FBI Offices in Springfield, in comments to The Beacon.

“The investigation was the result of a court ordered action. There were no arrests. The investigation is ongoing and we will not comment on specifics,” said Supervisor Karangekis.

“State troopers assigned to our office assisted the FBI with their investigation yesterday in Lee,” said Fred Lantz, spokesman for the Berkshire County District Attorney’s Office, confirming their assistance.

The FBI was able to confirm they also searched 131 Elaine Dr. in Pittsfield, the home of Chief Buffis. Agents of the FBI were reported at that address on Nov. 19 as well.

“We can confirm that agents of the FBI were involved in court-authorized activity at 131 Elaine Dr.,” said Supervisor Karangekis.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office in Boston had no comment on the matter other than, “The warrant is under seal.”

The chief also confirmed he has retained an attorney.

The Lee Board of Selectmen and Lee Town Administrator Bob Nason are refusing to comment on the matter at this time.

“Have a great day,” said Chief Buffis when asked by The Beacon about FBI agents coming to his house.

Chief Buffis chose to give no comment on the FBI’s investigation at the Lee Police Department’s offices.

The Berkshire Beacon is continuing to investigate this story and will update it as new information is found.

Posted by Kameron Z. Spaulding on November 20, 2012. Filed under Featured,News. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback to this entry