SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — Former New Mexico Secretary of State Dianna Duran was able to funnel thousands of dollars in campaign donations to her private bank accounts during a gambling binge without any regulatory agency noticing that she was breaking the law.
Duran's own agency was in charge of regulating campaign finance, but it was a confidential tip about numerous cash deposits that led to her getting caught.
In the wake of the violations by Duran, more lawmakers were accused of sidestepping campaign finance laws by spending political donations on satellite TV service, clothing from outlet stores and other personal expenses.
Investigations are ongoing and no other charges have been filed in what has become a recurring problem in New Mexico political circles.