Troy wrote that the “stark contrast” between what Marshall told Dalal and the ensuing report suggests one of two things: “either your actions, done in your official capacity, were the result of sheer bad faith motivated by some agenda against Mr. Marshall or, that you lack the ability to competently perform the investigative duties required of your office.

“In either event you have done a disservice to the city and further have undermined the integrity of your own office to the extent that a shadow, I am sure, will or should exist over all future reports that you may issue,” Troy concluded.

Dalal could not be reached for comment late Monday afternoon. He and other officials, including Mayor Dwight C. Jones, have declined to comment on the matter due to pending litigation.

Dalal, whose office won recognition this year from The Institute of Internal Auditors as one of the 11 best audit shops in the country, has built a strong reputation among the public for his ability to ferret out waste and abuse in city government. But he’s also clashed with some officials, including Judkins, who have characterized some of his work as too aggressive.