Investigation concludes Florida Sen. Jack Latvala's conduct may be criminal [View all]
TALLAHASSEE -- A Florida Senate investigation into sexual misconduct allegations against Sen. Jack Latvala has been referred to law enforcement after a retired judge found that the Clearwater Republican may have committed both sexual harassment and a sexual assault against multiple women, including allegations of quid pro quo physical contact or sexual intimacy in exchange for support of legislative initiatives.
The special masters report, delivered to the Senate Rules Committee on Tuesday by retired Judge Ronald V. Swanson, concluded there is probable cause to launch an investigation and hearing by the Rules Committee to determine if Latvala is guilty of violating Senate conduct rules and should be sanctioned or removed from office.
In a stunning development, however, the special master also referred the case for criminal investigation, concluding a witness other than Complainant, and seemingly confirmed in text messages from Latvala that appear to violate ethics rules, and may violate laws prohibiting public corruption.
The Special Master recommends these allegations be immediately referred to law enforcement for further investigation. An internal investigation pursuant to Senate Rules, referral to the Florida Commission on Ethics, and/or some other appropriate mechanism of investigation of the alleged ethics violations is also recommended, Swanson wrote in a 33-page report.
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