More calls to investigate Rick Scott over the FDLE chief's firing.

[Baitball Blogger]

Paid subscription article, so here's a clip:

Ouster of FDLE chief demands investigation

This heavy-handed intervention by the governor and his staff belies the fact that under the Florida Constitution, the FDLE is to be overseen by the Florida Cabinet, not the governor alone. That arrangement promotes independence at the agency, whose responsibilities include investigating political corruption.

Last week the other three Cabinet members — Pam Bondi, Jeff Atwater and Adam Putnam — voted with Scott to appoint Rick Swearingen, the former head of the state Capitol Police, as the new FDLE commissioner. This week, with controversy building over Bailey's ouster, Atwater called on Scott to reopen the search for the agency's new chief. Scott refused, saying that process would create "unnecessary turmoil." No, governor, you've already taken care of that.

It's essential that the FDLE operate above politics. An outside probe into Bailey's allegations — from a prosecutor, legislative committee or other investigative body — would be the best way to sort out the truth and restore trust in the agency.

The governor should welcome that opportunity.


http://www.orlandosentinel.com/opinion/os-ed-scott-v-bailey-20150121-story.html

[Baitball Blogger]

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