Ethics panel opens probe into Rep. Pittenger

The House Ethics Committee is formally opening an investigation into whether Rep. Robert Pittenger (R-N.C.) had an improper role with his former real estate company.

In a Thursday statement, the Ethics Committee announced it is establishing an investigative subcommittee into the matter. However, the committee is expected to defer action on the probe at the request of the Justice Department, which is already looking into Pittenger’s activities.

{mosads}Pittenger himself asked the Ethics panel to open an investigation last week to confirm he “always acted properly.”

At issue is whether Pittenger improperly transferred funds from his former real estate company, Pittenger Land Investments, to his 2012 election campaign. His wife, Suzanne, has assumed ownership of the company since Pittenger was elected to the House.

Under House ethics rules, lawmakers cannot manage other people’s assets, such as in real estate or law, while serving as members of Congress.

This story was updated at 5:09 p.m.