University system widens investigation of CCSN hiring

Jennifer Knight

Tuesday, Oct. 7, 2003 | 11:19 a.m.

A university system investigation involving the hiring of a woman who called herself Assemblyman Wendell Williams' special assistant has been broadened, system officials said today.

The results of the investigation into hiring practices at the Community College of Southern Nevada as a result have been delayed.

The results were expected to be delivered to Board of Regents on Wednesday, Regent Mark Alden said, but the investigation has widened.

"The scope is not a corridor," Alden said. "The scope is two football fields and it widens every day."

Alden said investigators have more than 20 people slated to be interviewed and some are reluctant to talk.

"I think anyone will be granted immunity on this issue," Alden said.

The investigation began from the hiring of Topazia "Briget" Jones at the Community College of Southern Nevada.

During the legislative session Jones called herself Williams' "special assistant." Williams was accused of using his influence to get Jones the position, but he says Jones was recruited by the college.

Jones was fired but immediately rehired after filing a complaint against the college, which resulted in the investigation.

Board of Regents Chairman Stavros Anthony said even though the board was expecting results this week, he would rather make sure the investigation is done correctly.

"We don't want to speed anything up just to make a board meeting," he said.

The investigation is now expected to conclude before December.