Justice Clarence Thomas took gifts, loan, free yacht trip to Russia: Democrat Senators
Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas has landed in a huge controversy with accusations of not disclosing at least 35 luxury gifts, a free yacht trip to Russia and a private helicopter journey to a palace in Vladimir Putin's hometown St. Petersburg. In a letter written to Attorney General Merrick Garland, Sens. Sheldon Whitehouse, D-R.I., and Ron Wyden, D-Or have also accused him of committing tax fraud and violating other federal laws by “secretly” accepting the gifts and income potentially worth millions of dollar, reports 'Daily Beast'. The senators have demanded to appoint a special counsel to probe Thomas.
Gifts from Harlan Crow
Most of the gifts came billionaire real estate developer Harlan Crow, who Thomas once called his «dearest friends.» The senators have also said that the gifts include «tuition for Justice Thomas's grandnephew,» «real estate transactions,» «home renovations,» and «free rent for Justice Thomas's mother.»
Thomas takes loan from Anthony Welters
The letter also says that Thomas allegedly took a loan of more than $267,000 from close friend Anthony Welters. It was 'ProPublica' who last year made startling revelations about the existence of extensive undisclosed gifts and lavish trips from Crow. The senators have said that Thomas’ conduct could lead to violation of the Ethics in Government Act, which requires officials like Supreme Court justices to file annual reports disclosing gifts and income accepted from outside sources.
Thomas under probe of Senate committees
Thomas has been under the
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