“I have urged Council Member [Harry] Thomas to consider seriously doing what is best for his family and his constituents as he moves forward from the settlement,” said D.C. Council Chairman Kwame Brown earlier this week, responding to news that his Ward 5 colleague had reached an agreement in a lawsuit filed by D.C. Attorney General Irvin Nathan. Thomas has promised to repay $300,000 of public funds officially identified for underserved youth. According to Nathan, Thomas diverted that money for his own personal enrichment, including the purchase of a luxury sport utility vehicle.
“The council’s Code of Ethics demands that members act solely in the public interest and not for any personal gain,” Brown continued in his prepared statement. “Members must keep the public’s trust and the integrity of the District government at the forefront of any decision making. No member is above reproach.”
