OFFICE OF THE STATE ATTORNEY FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT. IN AND FOR PALM BEACH COUNTY DAVID ARONBERG STATE ATTORNEY March 8, 2018 To: Dave Aronberg, State Attorney From: Adrienne Ellis, Chief Assistant State Attorney RE: Brian Fernandes Investigation Following a February 7, 2018, revelation of concerns about Mr. Fernandes’ management style, we opened an investigation into allegations of misconduct. Mr. Femandes, as a Chief Assistant State Attomey, has been responsible for oversight of several divisions within the Office. Over a period of four weeks we conducted more than twenty-five (25) interviews with a broad cross- section of employees. You participated in most of these interviews. We also consulted with outside employment counsel, Jim Williams, Esq. of Leininger & Cosby, P.A. Thave reached the following findings and conclusions: ‘There is clear evidence of a style of personnel management from Brian Fernandes that is heavy-handed and intimidating. There is no evidence to support a charge of illegal or unethical conduct. However, Mr. Fernandes’ overly aggressive style of management is inconsistent with your administration and a team approach to prosecutions in Palm Beach County. Consequently, after consultation with outside counsel, 1 recommend that all personnel management responsibilities be removed from Mr. Fernandes with a reduction in pay reflective of this change in organization, so ADRIENN! 401 Non Dixie vay, West Pal Beach, Forda 33401 Phone (561) 355-7100