ST. CROIX — The Senate Committee on Ethical Conduct will conduct a formal hearing to investigate claims of workplace harassment, financial mismanagement, misconduct, unethical behavior, and creating a hostile work environment against At-Large Senator Angel Bolques Jr. following the committee’s preliminary inquiry into the matter, according to a statement issued today.
After a staff member filed the complaint against Bolques with the Office of the Senate President on March 26, the CEC was established on March 28. On April 15, the committee issued a public statement announcing its formation, identifying its membership, and confirming that the committee would render an advisory opinion within 30 days, in accordance with the Legislature. On April 29, the CEC issued a second news release advising that the deadline for the advisory opinion had been extended to today to allow for a thorough and fair inquiry process.
The five-member committee delivered an advisory opinion to Senate President Milton Potter that included a summary of the allegations against Bolques, the procedural history of the matter, the committee’s findings to include interviews with current and former employees and relevant stakeholders, and recommendations.
The CEC, which determined a formal hearing is warranted after reviewing the evidence, is expected to conduct the hearing within the next two to three weeks. Further steps will follow upon the hearing’s conclusion.
Senate Vice President Kenneth Gittens, who chairs the Committee on Ethical Conduct, said the CEC has acted with diligence, impartiality, and professionalism throughout the process.
“We understand the importance of this matter and are committed to ensuring that the process is fair and that all parties are afforded due process.” Gittens said in a statement. “The public can be assured that the CEC will conduct the upcoming hearing with integrity and in accordance with the highest standards of ethical responsibility.”
Senator Dwayne DeGraff, Senate minority leader, who serves as CEC vice chair, commended the members of the committee for their hard work and steadfast commitment to ethical accountability.
“We recognize the gravity of the situation, and the public trust placed in this committee,” DeGraff stated. “We will continue to support a transparent, fair, and fact-driven process.”
In addition to Gittens and DeGraff, the other CEC members are Senators Carla Joseph, Novelle Francis Jr., and Kurt Vialet, Senate majority leader.
