Jackson Jambalaya

I recently submitted a public records request to the Ethics Commission for an opinion issued back in 1990. The complaint at the time was filed by Governor Mabus against Adjutant General Farmer. I received a letter from Tom Hood, the Executive Director, informing me the records no longer existed. The letter stated: "We have searched our records, but we cannot find any complaints or investigative files which are that old."

Mr. Hood continues: "My tenure at the Ethics Commission began in 2003. I am told that several years ago my predecessor had a large number of old files destroyed." Mr. Hood also stated such files are often confidential and can not be released but in this particular instance, the file did not exist. The Department of Archives and they do not have any records of the case either.

Mr. Hood has been a very able Executive Director and is very proactive on the issue of public records. Indeed, there have been times I've thought the wrong brother was serving as Attorney General. His candor and quick response to my request is greatly appreciated. However, the fact a previous director took it upon himself to throw out old files and not leave any record of their existence is troubling, to say the least. Previous opinions can serve as precedent when similar situations occur. In the case at hand, it is simply inexcusable for a Director to destroy all records about a case that received such attention. The issue of public officials using insider knowledge to obtain favorable land deals will undoubtedly arise in the future and his actions should be considered nothing short of delinquent. The Ethics Commission exists to keep our leaders honest, not sweep their sins under the run in the interests of convenience.