State Representative Chris Caruso (D-Bridgeport) is launching an investigation into possible ethics violations involving Governor Jodi Rell (R-CT).

Caruso says the Governor?s Chief of Staff, Lisa Moody, handed out invitations to a campaign fundraiser to about a dozen state commissioners and deputy commissioners in December. According to Caruso, the State Elections Enforcement Commission made a deal with Rell?s campaign to fine each of those commissioners about $500. However, Caruso says Elections Enforcement should not be involved in any deals.

State Senator John McKinney (R-Fairfield) says the issue was already investigated by the state attorney?s office, which found no illegal activity. Rell says Caruso and other state officials have every right to investigate the matter, but cautions against a witch hunt or anyone who may have a hidden agenda.