Probation officials face suspensions

This week, Corbett sent disciplinary letters to most of the 12 regional supervisors who oversaw the job interview process as well as other human resources employees, telling them they are facing unpaid suspensions of varying lengths, according to one person who received a letter. At least two supervisors received suspensions of 30 days, according to the employee.

“After a careful and thoughtful review and in consultation with the administrative office of the trial court, I have determined that some administrative action must be considered based upon the investigation performed by independent counsel Paul Ware concerning your previous conduct in the hiring and promotion process of probation personnel,’’ wrote Corbett.

“At this time and in order to conclude this matter and move forward as an organization I would be willing to resolve any disciplinary action with (an) unpaid suspension …’’ he wrote, giving employees until Oct. 28 to contest the punishment

The disciplined managers will also be required to participate in a statewide training on ethics in hiring and whistleblowing, Corbett wrote.

Corbett and his boss, Robert A. Mulligan, the state’s chief justice for administration, declined to comment on the disciplinary actions or even say how many letters were sent out, asserting it is a confidential personnel matter.

But Ware, appointed by the Supreme Judicial Court to investigate probation after the Globe Spotlight Team found that O’Brien had turned it into an employment agency for the well-connected few, said the disciplinary actions were well-deserved.

Ware’s damning 337-page report portrayed a court agency where O’Brien often designated the finalists for job openings ahead of time and expected his managers to interview hundreds of candidates anyway to create the appearance of an open process.