Mayor admits to violating ethics code

WOONSOCKET, R.I. (WPRI) - Woonsocket Mayor Susan Menard admits she violated the ethics code by leasing four motorcycles for the Police Department from her son-in-law's business.

The commission's investigation concluded that Menard had a conflict of interest, used public office to obtain financial gain, and entered into a contract without public notice or subsequent public disclosure.

"I am angry with myself that I didn't disclose it on the ethics form," says Mayor Menard in an interview on Tuesday.

Menard's lawyer, Glen Whitehead, refuted claims that Menard had directed anyone to enter into the contract or that there had been financial gain.

Whitehead said there was public disclosure of the motorcycle deal and that the lease of the motorcycles was paid for with federal money.

Menard denied the allegations for months, but on Tuesday, she admitted to her wrong doing.

Edward Roy, the complaintant says, "She's been in politics and in government a long, long time and knows the rules, but just chooses to ignore them."

The commission and the Mayor reached a settlement that includes a $2500 fine.