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Ethics panel to ask sheriff if probe needed
An ongoing federal grand jury investigation has revealed that sheriff's deputies were forced to contribute to political fundraisers for DeFazio and other Democrats. The county ethics code prohibits officials from soliciting campaign contributions from employees.
Michael Louik, chairman of the county Accountability, Conduct and Ethics Commission, said Thursday he would write a letter asking DeFazio: "Although we're aware of the ongoing investigation, are there matters that should be referred to us?"
"In terms of what has been in the newspapers about this investigation, we're concerned there's been a violation," said Commissioner Ronald Stone, who suggested sending the letter.
The commission claims it cannot launch an investigation without a formal complaint. Members said they decided to write the letter to remind DeFazio -- and other public officials -- that the ethics code exists.
Sheriff's Solicitor John Bacharach said he would not comment until he reviews the letter.
DeFazio's No. 2 man, Chief Deputy Dennis Skosnik, was charged last month with bribery, money laundering, witness tampering, and wire and mail fraud. Skosnik, 54, of North Fayette, also is accused in a 12-count indictment of misusing his county car, fixing parking tickets and a drunken-driving case, and forcing underlings to contribute to DeFazio's campaigns.
The grand jury indicted former sheriff's Capt. Frank Schiralli and former Lt. Cmdr. Richard A. Stewart Jr. on charges they lied when they told the grand jury they did not pressure employees to contribute to political campaigns. .
Schiralli, 53, of McKees Rocks, will be sentenced Dec. 22 for his conviction on one count. Stewart, 57, of Penn Hills, is negotiating a possible plea agreement with federal prosecutors.
Several deputies have testified Schiralli and Skosnik pressured them to buy tickets to fundraising events, such as an annual Mother's Day brunch and "Cocktails with Pete."
DeFazio suspended fundraising activities by his employees after Skosnik's indictment.
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