House Ethics Panel Ends Probe Into Alcee Hastings' Travel Funds

A House ethics panel has halted its investigation into the use of travel funds by Rep. Alcee Hastings and five other congressmen.

Citing unclear rules and a lack of evidence, investigators dropped their probe. Hastings, D-Miramar, used some of his travel stipend to purchase gifts.

Hastings maintained that he complied with the rules, and told Sunshine State News last month that he would be cleared.

Other targeted lawmakers included Rep. Joe Wilson, the South Carolina Republican who famously shouted "You lie" during President Barack Obama's State of the Union address.