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Criminal Police Probe Planned In Lawmaker's Affair Cover-Up

LANSING (WWJ/AP) - Michigan State Police plan to investigate potential criminal wrongdoing by two lawmakers who had an extramarital affair and admitted to misconduct in attempting to cover it up.

The agency says in a statement Friday it "will honor the requests made by the Legislature" for an investigation.

The announcement came after Republican Rep. Todd Courser announced his resignation amid a marathon overnight session in the House over whether he and Rep. Cindy Gamrat should stay in their jobs. Gamrat was expelled an hour after Courser's resignation.

Gov. Rick Snyder says he supports the state police in opening an investigation.

"This matter needs to be resolved and an investigation by MSP will provide even further clarity," Snyder said in a statement. "I hope this investigation helps bring closure to the issue for all involved."

Republican Speaker Kevin Cotter said the "serious findings of the House Business Office" are why the House wanted further investigation into the "behavior and antics of the representatives."

House Minority Leader Tim Greimel says "we are confident that there will finally be an independent investigation into this matter."

State police are already investigating the alleged blackmail in the case and this week obtained a warrant for records from a phone company related to a prepaid, or "burner," phone from which Courser said he received threatening text messages.

TM and © Copyright 2015 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2015 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.

 

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