Today the Mississippi Ethics Commission announced the settlement of a case against Picayune Mayor Greg Mitchell. The Commission determined that Mitchell violated Mississippi’s Ethics in Government Law when he voted to approve payments to two businesses with which his son and daughter were associated. The Ethics in Government Law prohibits government officials from using their position to obtain or attempt to obtain a monetary benefit for certain relatives.

Mitchell voted to use $1,266 in city funds to purchase sports equipment from his daughter’s business. He also voted to pay a painter who temporarily employed Mitchell’s son while painting a city-owned building.

Mitchell voluntarily repaid the $1,266 to the city. In addition, he paid a $500 civil fine to the state.

“Government officials can’t use their position to benefit their family members,” said Tom Hood, Executive Director of the Ethics Commission. Hood also said his office is available to advise public servants on complying with the law and to investigate public servants who break the law.