DCP investigator reports one new file, eight closures and ongoing problems flagging repeat offenders in records system

Supervising Special Investigator Janita Hamel, Department of Consumer Protection, told the occupational licensing board that between Nov. 1 and Dec. 30, 2024, the agency received “one new file” and closed eight files.

Hamel said the board’s report shows older matters that appear open in electronic reports even after staff closed them. “I get a list of ancient files that are showing up in mister Cohen's reports as being still open,” Hamel said, and she described going back through records to close items that had remained marked open in the tracking system.

The problem is agency‑wide, not limited to the occupational unit, Manager John Messner (staff member) told board members. Messner said the department launched a review of agency cases after the current commissioner took office and that some older cases still show as open in the e‑licensing system even though they were previously resolved.

Board members pressed Hamel about repeat offenders and how the office escalates enforcement. Kevin…