Progress Florida

Demand An Independent Investigation Into "Baileygate"

We’re just weeks into Gov. Rick Scott’s second term, and he’s already caught up in a major scandal. First it was reported that Scott lied about his firing of Florida’s top cop, longtime Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) Commissioner Gerald Bailey. Now it appears that the firing was politically motivated and that Scott violated both state and federal law.

Sign on to our letter to 2nd Judicial District State Attorney Willie Meggs urging an independent investigation into “Baileygate”, the growing scandal over Scott’s political bullying and his actions surrounding the termination of FDLE Commissioner Gerald Bailey.

Petition To State Attorney Willie Meggs

We, the undersigned, urge you to launch a thorough, independent investigation into “Baileygate”, the growing scandal over Gov. Rick Scott’s actions surrounding the termination of FDLE Commissioner Gerald Bailey.

Commissioner Bailey had a spotless record and media reports indicate his firing was retribution for his refusal to participate in unethical campaign activities on behalf of the governor. If media reports are true, Gov. Scott violated federal and state laws, including misusing his official position as governor.

The FDLE is charged with investigating political corruption in our state and must remain free from political influence and meddling. We urge you to thoroughly investigate the Baileygate scandal to determine if any state laws were broken and refer any possible violation of federal law to the proper authorities.

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    Subject: Rick Scott: "Liar"
    Friends,

    We’re just weeks into Gov. Rick Scott’s second term, and he’s already caught up in a major scandal. First it was reported that Scott lied about his firing of Florida’s top cop, longtime Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) Commissioner Gerald Bailey. Now it appears that the firing was politically motivated and that Scott violated both state and federal law.

    Join me and call on State Attorney Willie Meggs urging him to launch an independent investigation into “Baileygate”: http://act.progressflorida.org/sign/baileygate?source=taf

    The media has reported that Bailey’s ouster had nothing to do with his job performance, and instead was likely retribution for his refusal to participate in unethical campaign activities on behalf of the governor. The Tampa Bay Times/Miami Herald Capital Bureau reported that Bailey stated that Scott’s office made repeated efforts “to falsely name someone a target in a criminal case, hire political allies for state jobs, and intercede in an outside investigation of a prospective Scott appointee.”

    If true, Scott may have violated federal and state laws, including misusing his official position as governor. A thorough independent investigation is clearly warranted.

    Join me in writing State Attorney Willie Meggs and urge him to investigate: http://act.progressflorida.org/sign/baileygate?source=taf

    Rick Scott has shown time and time again that he thinks he’s above the law. But the widening “Baileygate” scandal reeks of corruption and, if properly investigated, could mean serious consequences for the governor. Thanks for your help.