A private attorney has been named counsel to the New York Senate committee investigating possible sanctions against Sen. Hiram Monserrate following his misdemeanor assault conviction.
Committee Chairman Sen. Eric Schneiderman says Daniel Alonso, a partner in a Manhattan law firm and former federal and city prosecutor, will help the nine senators examine evidence and the law to ensure proper procedures and a fair investigation.
While Alonso’s time is free, work by any associates from his firm, Kaye Scholer, will cost the Senate up to $350 an hour.
Monserrate, a Queens Democrat, faces sentencing Dec. 4 for dragging his girlfriend Karla Giraldo through his building.
Committee recommendations could range from no sanctions to expulsion.