The Florida Commission on Ethics is looking into allegations against Fort Myers Police Chief Derrick Diggs regarding questionable use of his city-issued credit card. The News-Press reports the commission has found probable cause in regards to Diggs's spending, including use of the credit cards to purchase boots, a satellite radio subscriptio, and thousands of dollars in meals, including a more than $3,000 dollar tab at the upscale Veranda restaurant in Fort Myers.
The ethics complaint against Diggs was filed by local activist Anthony Thomas last fall. Thomas is challenging Fort Myers City Councilman Jonny Streets for a Ward Two seat. Thomas is calling for Diggs to be fired and to to pay back the money.
A FMPD spokeswoman says the credit card expenditures were appropriate and allowed by city policy.
Deputy Executive Director of the Ethics Commission Kerrie Stillman says now that probable cause has been determined, they may proceed with a public evidentiary hearing or Diggs could resolve the complaint with a settlement, pending the commission's approval.
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