Hawaii 24/7 Staff

The state Department of Taxation reportedly has placed several workers on administrative leave without pay, following discovery of a possible internal security breach of the department’s tax database.

The breach was found earlier this year during an audit of the department’s security systems and internal controls, department officials said. The incidents date to 2008.

The matter was referred to the state Attorney General’s office for investigation, according to the department.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie released the following statement:

“To the extent that any wrongful activity has taken place, anyone who has participated in or has had knowledge of these activities that date back to at least 2008 will be brought to account. The Department of Taxation and the Department of the Attorney General will be taking the necessary actions as deemed appropriate.”