EAST HAVEN, Conn. (AP) A former East Haven official says the town should not pay for the defense of Mayor Joseph Maturo Jr. accused of sexual harassment by a former Town Hall secretary.

The New Haven Register reports that Maturo's lawyer, Hugh Keefe of New Haven, is paid by the town. John Conway, a Wallingford lawyer, is representing the town and will be paid by the town.

The ex-secretary filed a sexual harassment complaint, saying she was subjected to a hostile work environment and was sexually harassed by Maturo.

Paul Hongo, who was deputy director of town affairs for former Democratic Mayor April Capone, said Maturo, a Republican, should be told the town will not be financially liable if he is found culpable.

Town Attorney Joseph Zullo said East Haven has backed its employees in past lawsuits.