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Ethics Commission approves $1,000 stipulation in case involving Cedar Hammock Fire District commissioner
Summary
The Commission on Ethics approved a joint stipulation resolving two complaints against John Stevens; Stevens admitted one misuse-of-position allegation and agreed to pay a $1,000 fine, while a second allegation was dismissed. The commission voted by roll call to adopt the stipulation.
The Commission on Ethics voted to adopt a joint stipulation resolving two complaints (21-017 and 21-031) against respondent John Stevens, a commissioner for the Cedar Hammock Fire District. Under the agreement, Stevens admitted to a single misuse-of-position allegation and agreed to pay a $1,000 civil penalty; a second allegation was dismissed for lack of sufficient evidence.
Commission advocate presented the proposed stipulation and asked the commission to approve it in lieu of further proceedings. Rob Robinson, attorney for the respondent, told the commission he had nothing further to add. Commissioner Lyle moved to adopt the stipulation; Commissioner Rogers seconded. The chair called a roll-call vote and the motion passed.
The chair explained that if the commission had rejected the stipulation, the case would have proceeded to the Division of Administrative Hearings for an evidentiary hearing; because the stipulation was adopted, the agreed penalty and dismissal will be entered as the resolution. The chair thanked counsel and indicated the adopted stipulation will be reflected in the commission’s records.
The commission’s action resolves the public portion of the matters described in the stipulation; any future filings or enforcement related to these specific allegations will be governed by the terms of the agreement and the commission’s rules.
