Mary Pruitt - Controversies

Controversies

Pruitt was the subject of several investigations focusing on inappropriate or illegal use of funds. In 2006, it was discovered that she was renting a campaign office from herself, but the building was not used, and for some time, did not have utilities. Rep. Pruitt denied the charges, charging entrapment, but was fined $10,000 for failing to appear before the Registry of Election Finance (later reversed). Pruitt's attorney argued that utilities were routinely disconnected to discourage vandalism.

Investigations of public records also found several potential conflicts of interest. A scholarship fund which Rep. Pruitt directed awarded a scholarship to her relative. A legislative earmark Rep. Pruitt requested awarded $55,000 to a corporation she founded. Rep. Pruitt requested and received a daily per diem allowance for travel and lodging, despite living two miles from her office.

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