Sheriff's clerk faces federal charges for allegedly helping suspects

PITTSBURGH — An Allegheny County Sheriff’s clerk lied to the FBI while trying to protect people involved in a violent drug ring, according to federal prosecutors.

Erika Romanowski, 40, also allegedly lied to FBI agents interviewing her about those leaks, according to court documents.

She's now suspended after being arrested and charged with federal offenses.

According to investigators, Romanowski was caught in the middle of a narcotics investigation on the West End, all while working for the sheriff's office.

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From February through April, according to officials, "Romanowski disclosed non-public, sensitive, law enforcement information to two personal associates."

In one case, investigators claim, she heard there was going to be a drug round-up on the West End and called the targets of the round-up and told them to "stay at home for now."

When confronted by FBI agents, Romanowski denied knowing the suspects, according to the indictment.

The Allegheny County Sheriff's Office released a statement that Romanowski was:

"Suspended indefinitely, without pay, from the Sheriff's Office and escorted from the property.  As a result of the recent indictment and today's arrest, the Sheriff's Office is currently taking the appropriate disciplinary procedures to terminate Ms. Romanowski."

Cox Media Group