JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — A panel of lawmakers dismissed on Monday an ethics complaint against Speaker Dean Plocher, breaking from a Republican who argued that Plocher used his power as the House leader to block an investigation.
Members voted 7-2 to dismiss allegations against Plocher for misuse of taxpayer dollars, using his influence to push a pricey contract with a company with ties to his employer, and retaliating against staffers who raised complaints. One Democrat voted present.
“From the outset of this investigation, I’ve maintained my innocence,” Plocher told reporters after the hearing. “The Ethics Committee has finally reached the very same conclusion that I offered everybody back in November, and they vindicated me.”
Plocher is running as a Republican for Missouri secretary of state.
Republican Ethics Committee Chair Hannah Kelly, appointed to the position by Plocher, sought to dismiss the case “due to the inability of the committee to finish the investigation as a direct result of obstruction of the process and intimidation of witnesses by the respondent.”
Young Boys seals 6th Swiss soccer league title in 7 years after rallying from firing coach Wicky
Chinese industrial robots earn global acclaim
Global Citizen NOW urges investment in Sub
Kris Jenner launches eerily uncanny Christmas ornament of herself for $82
Children are evacuated from school 'during an exam' after threat made via email
Renowned NFL stadium architect releases images of potential new Chiefs arena
A Chinese flavor of rap music is flourishing as emerging musicians find their voices
From a chance meeting in a cafe to a devastating six
Jessica Biel CHOPS her long locks into a bob after book signing in Studio City
Hall of Fame outfielder Ken Griffey Jr. to lead Indianapolis 500 field in Corvette pace car
Chris Hemsworth shows off his chivalrous side as he offers his arm to support Anya Taylor