Prosecutor to review investigation into Columbia councilman
The Boone County Sheriff’s Department said Thursday it is sending its investigation into a Columbia councilman to the Boone County Prosecutor’s Office.
Det. Tom O’Sullivan confirmed the investigation into Fourth Ward Councilman Ian Thomas is being reviewed by the records department before it is sent to Prosecuting Attorney Dan Knight’s office.
ABC 17 News previously reported the investigation was based on a complaint forwarded by the Missouri Attorney General’s Office.
Thomas reported himself to the Missouri Ethics Commission in November for his actions related to the Oakland Crossing planned development.
According to documents obtained by ABC 17 News, Thomas sent a letter to the MEC on Nov. 19 that detailed the process he went through with developers of the potential Oakland Crossing Development, during which he agreed to “champion” the project in exchange for a donation to the Columbia Community Land Trust.
The developers agreed to pay $35,000 to the trust in exchange for approval of the project, but the project was never voted on. Thomas reported himself after City Attorney Nancy Thompson flagged the deal as potentially illegal. Thompson wrote that it was illegal for the city to accept funds in exchange for project approval.
Thomas said he had no futher comment when ABC 17 News contacted him Thursday. He has said in the past that he had good intentions in making the deal and did not realize its potential legal ramifications.
