| By Dave Harding, ProgressOhio - May 13th, 2008 at 10:55 am EDT |
The Columbus Dispatch is reporting that House Democrats filed articles of impeachment this morning against Attorney General Marc Dann.
The articles, outlined in a resolution sponsored by 42 House Democrats, contend that Dann warrants impeachment for "misconduct in office rising to the level of malfeasance, neglect, nonfeasance, gross neglect of duty, improper exercise of authority and gross immorality."
The nine counts allege that Dann:
Obstructed the internal investigation into allegations of sexual harassment in his office.
Willfully and intentionally issued misleading statements under oath.
Neglected to perform the duties of his office and by his own admission was not competent or qualified for the job.
Knew or should have known that his own admitted sexual affair with an employee contributed to and allowed a hostile work environment.
Failed to ensure the safety and security of state property.
Failed to investigate and prohibit improper use of state property.
Knew or should have known of the misuse of state property for personal business.
Committed acts of gross neglect of duty by undermining the integrity of his office; bringing disrepute upon the office; betraying the public trust as Ohio's chief law enforcement officer; and undermining the effectiveness and efficiency of the office.
Committed acts of gross immorality and knew or should have known that his personal conduct undermined the effectiveness and efficiency of the office.
This morning, the House State Government and Elections Committee voted 10-5 for a bill giving state Inspector General Thomas P. Charles authority to investigate allegations of mismanagement in Dann's office and the handling of a pair of sexual harassment complaints filed against a supervisor and close friend of Dann.
Rep. Dan Stewart, D-Columbus, was one of five Democrats on the committee to vote against the bill.
"I believe it is the constitutional responsibility of the House to look at this issue and decide if these issues have risen to the level of impeachable offenses," Stewart said. "Bringing in the inspector general, who I'm sure does a fine job, is just adding another layer and is really giving up our responsibility."
Republicans defeated to Democrat-sponsored amendments. One would have required Charles to finish his investigation within 60 days, instead of the current bill, which has no time limit. The other would have forced Dann to pay for the cost of the investigation if he was ultimately convicted of a crime.
The bill allocates $250,000 to cover costs of the investigation.
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