Aaron Reardon: Criminal Investigation by State Patrol an "Appalling Charade"

Snohomish County Executive Aaron Reardon, in a news release, says allegations against him related to the criminal use of state funds for travel expenses are false.

“This is a nameless, baseless accusation that comes five days before the election," said Reardon, whose deputy county executive is former Edmonds Mayor Gary Haakenson. "I am more than confident that voters in Snohomish County will see through this appalling charade and not be duped."

The Seattle-PI reported today that the Washington State Patrol has launched a criminal investigation into Reardon at the request of the Snohomish County Prosecutor's Office.

Said Reardon: “I have not been notified or given any details by the Washington State Patrol or anybody else regarding an accusation of ‘misuse of funds.’ ”

The charge comes less than a week before election day. Reardon, a two-term incumbent and Democrat, is in an often combative political fight to retain his seat against .

“All funding appropriations and expenditures are reviewed by multiple departments as they are made as well as by the state auditor’s office on an annual basis," said Reardon. "There are numerous checks and balances in place to prevent the misuse of public funds and to identify any discrepancies.

“In addition, earlier allegations made against me by a Republican Party officer in April regarding the misuse of funds for travel were categorically dismissed by the Washington State Public Disclosure Commission.”