An ethics probe draws return fire

As an ex-state official, a democrat, is investigated, Dems point to GOP successor

By Michele McNeil
michele.mcneil@indystar.com

The inspector general's office is investigating whether the former Democratic transportation commissioner violated state ethics rules by seeking political contributions from companies doing business with his agency. Democrats immediately alleged similar behavior by the current transportation commissioner, a Republican.

In the investigation announced Thursday by Inspector General David Thomas, J. Bryan Nicol is accused of having a fundraiser at his house in the summer of 2003 for Democrat Mayor Bart Peterson, who was seeking a second term at the time. Representatives from several design firms who either had contracts or were seeking contracts with the Indiana Department of Transportation attended the fundraiser, according to the ethics complaint.

Former deputy transportation commissioner Vaneeta Kumar is accused of violating the same ethics rule during a fundraiser at her house in September of 2003 for Peterson.

Ethics rules prohibit state employees from seeking political contributions from those who have a business relationship with the state. Those who violate the rule face a fine of up to $10,000 and a ban on working for state government.


What a fucking joke ... the entire Daniels Administration is an ethics violation. :mad:

...it's all trying to cover up their own crime by making it look like Democrats do it too.