Investigators raid mayor pro tem's office

Agents from the city Office of the Inspector General raided the office of Mayor Pro Tem Carol Alvarado today, taking equipment and putting employees on administrative leave after the city finance director got reports of payroll irregularities.

Details are scarce, but KPRC reported computers were confiscated and the office's door locks were changed. Four employees were placed on leave, but officials didn't comment on Alvarado's status. As mayor pro tem, she handles administrative functions for City Council members; the mayor pro tem office is separate from Alvarado's Council office. City Councilman Michael Berry told the Chronicle the investigation centers on allegations that city employees have themselves bonuses, but Alvarado didn't confirm any details.

Statements from Alvarado and Mayor Bill White are expected soon.