14 Jul 2007

Palau Speaker charged with misuse of government funds

7:32 am on 14 July 2007

Palau's House Speaker Antonio Bells has been charged with two counts of misuse of government funds.

The Pacific Daily News reports that the charges stem from medical expenses and per diem that Bells, at that time a Delegate on a House business trip to Manila, allegedly incurred.

Special Prosecutor Everette Walton alleges that Bells used his government position in an effort to obtain personal financial gain and acted contrary to House Travel Policy and Procedures.

The second count claims Bells used national assets for private, not public purpose.

If found guilty, the Speaker could be fined up to $10,000.