(Columbia) ? As legislators worked on the state budget Wednesday, they were also trying to understand how the man in charge of the money, State Treasurer Thomas Ravenel, ended up in trouble with the law.
Read the GOP's Official Statement on Ravenel's Federal Indictment
"I've known him and his family for many, many years," explained Rep. Chip Limehouse, who is from Ravenel's hometown of Charleston. ?I'm troubled by these accusations, troubled by these charges.?
Thomas Ravenel was indicted on a federal charge of conspiracy to possess cocaine with intent to distribute. According to the U.S. Attorney's office, Ravenel provided drugs to others for personal use. He we be arraigned on July 9th.
?We'll just have to wait and let the legal system take its course of action and work through this,? said Limehouse. ?It's very sad, very unfortunate.?
Although the news of Ravenel's pending arrest came as a shock, Limehouse says lawmakers have remained focused on the tasks at hand. ?As far as writing the budget, the treasurer?s office plays a very insignificant and small role in that,? he said. ?The treasurer is more in charge of keeping state funds on hand, investing state funds, and making sure our credit rating stays good.?
According to Limehouse, the governor made a good choice in selecting Columbia attorney Ken Wingate as interim treasurer. ?He is a well-respected individual, who is going to immediately go in and bring some stability to the office of treasurer,? he said.
If Ravenel is acquitted of the criminal charge, he can resume office. However, if he is found guilty or resigns, the General Assembly will elect another treasurer.
6/20/2007 9:23:00 PM
