NBC News - House Ethics report says Matt Gaetz paid women for sex and used illegal drugs
The House Ethics Committee has published a report detailing allegations against former Congressman Matt Gaetz. The report accuses Gaetz of engaging in sexual activities with a 17-year-old girl, potentially violating Florida state law. It also claims he paid for sex and used illegal drugs between 2017 and 2020. Gaetz attempted to prevent the report's release by suing the committee but was unsuccessful. Despite denying any wrongdoing, the report includes evidence such as $90,000 in payments to 12 women and witness testimony of drug use, including an incident in the Bahamas in 2018. Although federal investigators previously found insufficient evidence to prosecute, the Ethics Committee suggests there is enough for a state-level investigation.
Key Points:
- The House Ethics Committee accuses Matt Gaetz of sexual misconduct with a minor and illegal drug use.
- Gaetz allegedly paid $90,000 to 12 women for sex, according to the report.
- The report includes witness testimony of Gaetz using ecstasy in the Bahamas in 2018.
- Gaetz denies all allegations and attempted to block the report's release.
- Federal investigators did not prosecute due to insufficient evidence, but state-level investigation is suggested.
Details:
1. 🔍 Breaking News Overview
1.1. Introduction to Health Discussions
1.2. Details on Health Topics
2. 📜 House Ethics Committee Report on Matt Gaetz
2.1. Allegations and Evidence
2.2. Legal Actions and Report Release
2.3. Resignation and Political Implications
3. 🕵️♂️ Investigation Details and Evidence
- The House Ethics Committee conducted a lengthy investigation into Matt Gaetz, revealing substantial evidence behind accusations against him.
- The report details that Matt Gaetz engaged in sexual activity with a 17-year-old girl, supported by witness testimony from the victim, who claimed to have had sex with Gaetz on two occasions in 2017.
- The investigation uncovered $90,000 in payments to 12 different women, which is presented as evidence of Gaetz paying for prostitution and illicit drug use.
- Gaetz was reported to have used and possessed illegal drugs, including an incident in 2018 where a witness saw him taking ecstasy during a trip to the Bahamas.
- The report also highlights violations of House ethics rules by Gaetz, including accepting gifts that exceeded permissible limits.
4. ⚖️ Gaetz's Response and Potential Legal Implications
- Matt Gaetz has consistently denied allegations of having sex with an underage woman, emphasizing his innocence through public statements and social media.
- He actively counters claims of paying for sex by referencing witness testimony from a previous civil matter, aiming to discredit the accusations.
- Federal investigators previously concluded there was insufficient evidence to prosecute Gaetz on these accusations, highlighting a lack of concrete proof at the federal level.
- Despite the federal decision, the House Ethics Committee has determined there is enough evidence to warrant a state-level investigation, indicating potential legal challenges ahead for Gaetz.