State probes claims against State Rep. Roberts

[Freddie Stubbs]

By David Hunt
TRIBUNE-REVIEW
Wednesday, June 16, 2004


A state grand jury is investigating whether a veteran legislator from Fayette County forged his nominating petitions and hired a dupe candidate in an effort to secure a Democratic nomination in the spring primary election.

Two witnesses -- including the alleged dupe candidate -- were ordered to appear before the jury Tuesday to answer questions about state Rep. Larry Roberts' involvement in the alleged scandal.

Roberts, who has served the 51st District for 12 years, has been under investigation by the state Attorney General's Office since March. Yesterday's witness interviews were a step toward possible criminal charges.

Kevin Harley, a spokesman for the Attorney General's Office, said the state investigation is ongoing. Under the Grand Jury Act, he said he could not elaborate on the grand jury process or confirm whether it had been initiated.

more: http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/tribune-review/trib/regional/s_199051.html