Former inspector who took bribes from lawmaker fined $4,000

FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP) – The Executive Branch Ethics Commission has fined a one-time state mine inspector $4,000 for accepting bribes from a former lawmaker.
According to a news release, Kelly Shortridge has admitted to four counts of violating the state ethics code. Shortridge agreed not to issue citations against a coal mine owned by former Democratic state Rep. Keith Hall in exchange for bribes of about $46,000. According to a settlement agreement, Shortridge agreed to pay a $4,000 civil fine and will never again seek employment with the state.
Shortridge pleaded guilty to federal charges last year and was sentenced to two years in prison. Hall was also indicted, but denied the charges. Shortridge testified against Hall and a federal jury convicted him last year. A judge then sentenced Hall to seven years in prison.

Copyright 2016 The Associated Press.