A couple of Panhandle lawmakers are calling for a probe into the use of BP funds. This comes after an ex-Florida tourism director accused of embezzling money, was found dead Friday of a suspected drug overdose. Trimmel Gomes reports.
On Friday Incoming Senate President Don Gaetz along with his son, Representative Matt Gaetz sent a letter to Governor Scott asking the Florida Department of Law Enforcement to help investigate the misuse of public funds at the Okaloosa County Tourism Development Council. On Monday Scott agreed a review is needed.
“We need to make sure everybody knows how money is being spent get as much information out there and there is a greater chance it will get spent better”
The former Okaloosa tourism chief, Mark Bellinger, admitted he used public funds to purchase a yacht and his Destin home. Okaloosa County Sheriff Larry Ashley says even the FBI will be involved in the case, since BP oil spill funds may have been used.
“It will be a thorough and long investigation by multiple agencies and we’ll get to the bottom of it.”
Bellinger died of a suspected drug overdose. He left a suicide note behind.
For FPR/WFSU-FM I’m Trimmel Gomes