Some South Carolina State University officials could face a grand jury if 1st Circuit Solicitor David Pascoe decides evidence presented by the South Carolina Ethics Commission is substantial.
“We did an investigation in regard to the misuse of public funds and referred it to the solicitor for his review. He will determine who needs to be charged, if anyone,” Herb Hayden, executive director of the State Ethics Commission, said Thursday.
He said specifics of the investigation cannot be disclosed at this time.
Hayden and an investigator from the State Ethics Commission recently met with Pascoe and presented him with the results of an audit at S.C. State.
“After initial review of their findings, I decided to take a closer look at it and make a decision,” Pascoe said.
As to what was at the center of the investigation, Pascoe identified the university’s finance department. He would not name anyone specifically targeted.
S.C. State Senior Vice President of Finance John Smalls said Thursday was the first time he has heard about a potential legal case. He said any charges would have no merit.
“Absolutely not, absolutely not,” Smalls said.
Smalls said he was aware a review was being conducted about three months ago by the State Ethics Commission. He said he has not heard from the commission since.
Smalls said former S.C. State President Dr. Andrew Hugine, Jr. had a report on the finance department done sometime ago and speculated that Hugine may have met with the State Ethics Commission.
“On his way out, he had some axes to grind. He met with them, I think,” said Smalls of Hugine.
Last December, the S.C. State board decided not to renew Hugine’s expiring contract and tapped Dr. Leonard McIntyre as interim president.
Hugine said Thursday he never met with officials from the State Ethics Commission.
“No, I’m not familiar with that,” Hugine said.
As to the basis of the report, Smalls said it would be premature to comment since it involved the State Ethics Commission.
T&D Staff Writer Lee Tant can be reached at ltant@timesanddemocrat.com and 803-534-1060.