Hudson prosecutor stands by handling of Murphy staffer sex assault probe

Hudson County Prosecutor Esther Suarez is standing by how her office handled and investigated a sexual assault allegation made against a former Murphy administration staffer.
In a statement Wednesday, Suarez calls allegations she interfered in the case "offensive and irresponsible."
Suarez says that she and everyone from her office acted professionally.
"If I am called to speak with the special bipartisan committee I will gladly answer whatever questions they may have on this matter. I anxiously await the opportunity to defend this Office and stop the misinformation,” Suarez said in a statement. 
Albert Alvarez is accused of sexual assault by two women, including fellow staffer Katie Brennan. Brennan claims that Alvarez sexually assaulted her in April 2017 when they were both working on Gov. Phil Murphy’s campaign.
Alvarez, through his attorney, has denied wrongdoing.
Suarez said she is familiar with Alvarez and Katie Brennan, but wasn't involved in the 2017 investigation and only learned about it this month.
The investigation has been reopened and transferred to the Middlesex County Prosecutor's Office.
A state Senate committee is investigating the Murphy administration's handling of the matter.
Attorney Michael Critchley will serve as counsel. He will report to a bipartisan committee formed to investigate the handling of the sexual assault allegations.
Critchley was previously involved in the “Bridgegate” case, representing defendant Bridget Ann Kelly. 
The Associated Press wire services contributed to this report.