(DailyAnswer.org) – The House Ethics Committee has released a detailed report accusing former Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla., of engaging in illegal activities while serving in office. According to the 37-page document, Gaetz allegedly paid women for sex, including a 17-year-old high school student, and used illegal drugs like cocaine and ecstasy. The report outlines extensive allegations, including statutory rape and drug use.
The report concluded that Gaetz violated both Florida state laws and House rules. It alleged that he engaged in prostitution, statutory rape, drug use, and obstruction of Congress. Gaetz has denied all allegations and pointed out that a federal investigation into the claims ended without charges against him. However, the House Ethics Committee stated it found “substantial evidence” supporting the accusations.
One particularly serious claim involves a 2017 party where Gaetz allegedly had sex with a 17-year-old. According to the report, the girl—referred to as “Victim A”—said she never told Gaetz her age. She also claimed she was under the influence of ecstasy during their encounter and received $400, which she understood to be payment for sex. Witnesses also said they saw Gaetz using cocaine at the same party.
The report detailed tens of thousands of dollars in payments made by Gaetz to women from 2017 to 2020, which the committee believes were tied to sexual activity or drug use. Gaetz reportedly referred to drugs in messages to women using code words like “party favors” and “vitamins.”
The investigation also uncovered evidence that Gaetz tried to mislead or obstruct the committee’s work. This included refusing to comply with a subpoena about a trip to the Bahamas involving women and drugs. Witnesses alleged Gaetz encouraged others to lie or withhold information.
Gaetz resigned from Congress last month after being nominated for attorney general by President-elect Donald Trump, although he later withdrew from consideration. His resignation effectively ended the committee’s jurisdiction over the case, but the findings were still made public due to their significance.
Gaetz has since filed a lawsuit attempting to block the release of the report, continuing to deny all allegations. The House Ethics Committee’s decision to release the findings highlights ongoing concerns about accountability for public officials.
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