SCOTT COUNTY, Iowa — CORRECTION: News 8 initially reported that we had not heard back from Chris Laye's campaign for sheriff. Laye responded shortly after News 8 reached out and due to internal miscommunication, it was not reflected in the article. We apologize for the error. The article has since been updated.
The Iowa Ethics and Campaign Disclosure Board voted unanimously to look into a complaint filed against Scott County Sheriff Tim Lane, according to a meeting recording posted online.
The complaint alleges Lane used patrol cars and sheriff deputies to campaign at a Bettendorf Halloween parade back in October. Under Iowa law, the use of public resources for campaigning or other political purposes is not allowed.
Lane denies any wrongdoing and provided the following statement:
"The sheriff’s office and myself were in the Bettendorf Halloween parade handing out candy to kids. This was not a campaign event. I did not announce my candidacy for reelection until January of this year. This complaint comes from the Chris Laye campaign and has no merit."
News 8 verified that Lane did not announce his reelection campaign until a Scott County Republicans meeting in January of this year.
Chris Laye is the Republican candidate running against Lane for Scott County sheriff in the June 4 primaries. News 8 reached out to Laye for comment and heard back shortly after regarding the candidate's rumored move to Montana.
"Thanks for reaching out with your question.
I currently reside just outside of LeClaire in Scott County, Iowa and I do not nor have I ever lived in Montana.
To further explain, my wife is a federal employee with the Department of Veterans Affairs as a healthcare provider. She is pending a possible transfer as a provider to a position in Billings, Montana however this is not yet confirmed.
With the nearly 3 million employees in the federal government, it is quite customary and common practice for many families to live long distance while pursuing their careers, just ask any Congressional leader.
With having just under 25 years service in the active duty military, nearly half of my career was lived unaccompanied on overseas tours.
There are other campaigns for the Scott County Sheriff’s Office of which some involved in those campaigns are regularly trying to twist information about my campaign to mislead the public."
Over 20 years ago, the Iowa Ethics and Campaign Disclosure Board said it is legal for law enforcement officials to wear uniforms while campaigning. However, that is the extent to which law enforcement officials can use public resources for political purposes.
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