Former Florida State Senator Reaches Agreement on Ethics Probe

TALLAHASSEE -- A former state senator from the Tampa Bay area reaches a proposed settlement over ethics accusations that resulted in him leaving office in 2017.

Clearwater Republican Jack Latvala admits to using "poor judgment" in a long-term affair with a female lobbyist, which "may have constituted a technical violation of state law." The agreement also stipulates there's "no evidence" that the affair "affected his official actions in an way." Other allegations would be dismissed, “as the evidence does not warrant moving forward.”

Latvala stepped down after a special master report on allegations that he sexually harassed a Senate aide. He denied wrongdoing but admitted to the extramarital affair. That report also found probable cause that Latvala groped the aide and made unwelcome remarks about women's bodies.

Leon County prosecutors said in 2018 there was unsufficient evidence to pursue criminal charges related to whether Latvala promised legislative favors. The settlement says it is unlikely evidence could establish proof that he violated state law.

The Ethics Commission still must sign off on the deal, and there is the possibility of it being referred to the Senate for further action.

Informtion from the News Service of Florida was used in this report.

Photo: Getty Images


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