FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY
Investigative Summary
2021-0011-INVI-P J. Brett Blanton, Architect of the Capitol, Abused His Authority, Misused Government Property and Wasted Taxpayer Money, Among Other Substantiated Violations
collaboration, declined to provide investigative assistance. The USAO then assigned an internal criminal investigator, and after 10 months of conducting a joint investigation, ultimately decided not to pursue criminal prosecution in Washington, D.C., or the Eastern District of Virginia. The USAO referred the case back to the OIG for administrative violations and referrals to other law enforcement and government agencies as per the Inspector General Act of 1978.
The investigation findings and alleged violations have been referred to the U.S. Government Accountability Office to determine whether, in consideration of all laws, statutes, orders and rules, the purchase of the motor vehicle and accessories is proper and to examine and opine whether the Architect has the authority to determine when "operational consideration exists" to authorize a motor vehicle for their own use. Additionally, the OIG has requested an opinion as to whether the alleged activities and family use fall outside of “official business” or "official purpose" and would therefore be in violation of appropriations law or other applicable statutes or orders.
The OIG will provide investigative findings and alleged violations of unreported fringe benefits (including Title 26 U.S.C. § 132, Certain Fringe Benefits) to the IRS for their consideration.
The OIG will provide investigative findings and potential violations of law in the Commonwealth of Virginia to the Assistant Commonwealth's Attorney for their consideration.
Final Management Action: The OIG substantiated multiple administrative policy violations. The case is closed, and the OIG has provided the final Report of Investigation to the AOC's Congressional Oversight Committees for their review and any action they deem appropriate.
For Official Use Only
