By MARIO DIAZ pix11.com | @mariopix11

9:50 p.m. EST, January 27, 2012
EAST HAVEN, CT (PIX11)—
Less than 24 hours after after embattled East Haven Mayor Joe Maturo told PIX 11 on Thursday that he is standing firm and refuses to resign, the New York Times published a critical editorial asking the embattled mayor to step down.

The Mayor was cited for his continued support of controversial East Haven Police Chief Leonard Gallo -- despite the fact that the FBI arrested 4 of his police officers for alleged racial profiling and intimidation. In addition, he was taken to the woodshed for his racial insensitivity after he told PIX 11 Reporter Mario Diaz, "I might have tacos when I go home. I'm not quite sure yet," after Diaz asked him, "What are you doing for the Latino community today?"

On Thursday, PIX 11 reported exclusively that the Feds have been asking about the business relationship between Mayor Maturo and his close friend Chief Gallo. A day later Paul Hongo, the former Deputy Director of Town Affairs for East Haven, entered the picture. In an exclusive interview with PIX 11, Hongo admitted that the FBI questioned him over Gallo as well as Maturo. Here is part of that interview.

Diaz: Has the FBI asked you about Mayor Maturo? Hongo: Yes, him and several other people.

Diaz: Do you think he is being investigated by the FBI? Hongo: I think he and several others are being investigated. Yeah sure

Diaz: What are they investigating him for, corruption from the top down? Hongo: Absolutely.

Mayor Maturo was adamant there is no investigation on Thursday saying, "Mario if there was I'd tell you. I was straight with you the other day and I'm straight with you now."

Hongo on the other hand strongly believes the Feds have their eyes focused on a cast of characters, "I won't be shocked if any number of people are arrested."