Conn. Gov. Seeks Distance From Rowland

[kskiska]

HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) - Lt. Gov. M. Jodi Rell has been so careful to avoid the kind of scandal that brought down her boss that she banned all gifts around the office last year - even birthday and Christmas presents

``It's just better to say 'nothing,''' she said.

(snip)

As the case unfolded, Rell was cautious about avoiding the taint of the scandal. But she had her own ethical troubles during a decade as lieutenant governor.

One of the Republican's most difficult ordeals occurred three years ago when state police investigated an alleged cover-up involving her son, who was found with a stolen jet ski six years earlier. Michael Rell said he borrowed the watercraft from a friend and did not know it was stolen.

(snip)

In 1997, it was disclosed that Rell's husband and Rowland's children received surplus military gear intended for program known as Project Northstar, which gave police equipment for drug enforcement. Louis Rell received a camouflage jacket, gloves and a duffel bag.

Rell and the Rowlands returned the items and apologized.

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