Probe of Lawmakers in Sex Scandal Shows Misconduct, Misuse of Tax Money

Preliminary findings in an investigation of two Michigan lawmakers embroiled in a sex scandal indicated evidence of “both misconduct and misuse of taxpayer resources,” according to a statement released Monday by House Business Office director Tim Bowlin.

On Aug. 7, the Detroit News reported that Reps. Todd Courser, R-Lapeer, and Cindy Gamrat, R-Plainwell, were involved in an extramarital affair and coverup. The two shared office space and some staff. Both are married and both have children.

“After completing the investigation, we have preliminary findings of both misconduct and the misuse of taxpayer resources by both representatives,” Bowlin said, according to a report in The Detroit News. “The Business Office has completed a draft report on these findings and has submitted it to outside counsel for an independent review.”

Bowlin turned his findings over to House Speaker Kevin Cotter, R-Mount Pleasant, who asked for the investigation after Courser reportedly asked a House employee to participate in an elaborate cover-up scheme that involved distributing fake emails claiming Courser had been caught having sex with a male prostitute behind a Lansing nightclub.

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The full report won’t be released until after an attorney reviews the findings, Bowlin and Cotter said in a statement.

“I have received a draft report to review, and there is troubling evidence of misconduct. I am directing my legal counsel to review the preliminary findings for the purposes of any further disciplinary actions,” Cotter said, adding that’s a “normal process to protect the privacy and confidentiality of affected individuals and ensure compliance with Human Resources regulations.”

Catch Up on This Story:

• State Rep Wanted to Cover Up Affair With Fake Gay Sex Scandal
• Rep. Courser’s Brother Posts Alleged Blackmail Texts Online
• Not My Finest Moment’ – State Rep Apologizes for Fake Sex Scandal Scheme
• Legislators Not Quitting, Ex-Aide Shares Steamy Details of Affair
• Lawmakers OK Inquiry into House Sex Scandal and Cover-Up

The Michigan House of Representatives last approved an inquiry into the sex scandal and cover-up that could result in the expulsion of the two freshman lawmakers.

Other options before the Select Committee include censure, a reprimand or no action at all, according to a Detroit Free Press report. Members haven’t yet been appointed to the committee, which will examine the Gamrat and Courser’s qualifications and determine their fitness to continue serving.