The Legislature’s Committee on Ethical Conduct has determined that a formal hearing is warranted in its investigation of Senator-At-Large Angel Bolques Jr., marking a serious development in a case that began with internal complaints of workplace harassment, financial mismanagement, and the creation of a hostile environment.
The recommendation, issued May 30 following a two-month inquiry, came after the Committee found that a preponderance of the evidence supported moving the process forward. A Statement of Allegations is now being prepared, and a formal hearing is expected to be scheduled within the next two to three weeks. According to the Committee, the investigation included interviews with current and former employees and an extensive review of administrative procedures.
“This matter is not being taken lightly,” said Committee Chairman and Senate Vice President Kenneth Gittens. “We understand the importance of this matter and are committed to ensuring that the process is fair and that all parties are afforded due process. The public can be assured that the CEC will conduct the upcoming hearing with integrity and in accordance with the highest standards of ethical responsibility.”
The Committee on Ethical Conduct was formally established on March 28 after Senate President Milton Potter received a complaint from a staff member who alleged repeated misconduct by Bolques. While Potter said in an interview with the Source that he had recused himself from the proceedings, he had initially confirmed the panel would deliver its findings within 30 days. That deadline was extended to May 30 to ensure what the Committee described as “a thorough and fair inquiry process.” The Advisory Opinion issued last week includes a summary of the allegations, procedural history, investigative steps taken, and the standards of review applied.
This is not the first time the Legislature has faced internal ethics issues. In 2022, a similar complaint led to the expulsion of then-Senator Steven Payne Sr. over sexual misconduct allegations. Bolques was appointed shortly after to fill that same At-Large seat, before later securing election in his own right.
Senate Minority Leader Dwayne DeGraff, who serves as the Committee’s Vice-Chair, praised the panel for its careful review. “We recognize the gravity of the situation, and the public trust placed in this Committee,” he said. “We will continue to support a transparent, fair, and fact-driven process.”
The Committee reaffirmed in its release that it views maintaining a safe, respectful workplace as both a legal obligation and an ethical one. “The Committee remains committed to upholding the ethical standards of the Legislature of the Virgin Islands, ensuring accountability, and maintaining a workplace environment free from harassment, coercion, or abuse of authority,” the release stated.
