Published February 1980 — Download PDF of the original newspaper column
Byrd's-Eye View By U.S. Senator Robert C. Byrd Public Office/Public Trust Members of Congress, indeed, any public officeholder, must adhere to a higher standard of conduct than the average citizen. To hold public office is to be given a public trust, and a public trust should not be betrayed. An individual who commits a crime commits an act against society. Criminal activity cannot be tolerated in this society wherever it occurs. The recent allegations that eight members of Congress have been implicated in a bribery/conflict-of-interest scandal have shocked the American public, and those of us who serve in government. Public confidence in Congress has been shaken. But, in this country, there are principles and procedures for dealing with allegations of criminal conduct, and for dealing with criminal acts. A fundamental principle of American jurisprudence that underlies these procedures is that one is presumed innocent until proven guilty. Unfortunately, news of the so-called ABSCAM investigation conducted by the FBI and the Department of Justice was leaked to the press before the judicial process had begun. Crimes may or may not have been committed. So far, there have been no charges, indictments, or convictions. The pretrial publicity may have damaged the reputations and careers of innocent people. In addition, the leaked stories may have compromised the case against those who may have committed criminal acts and who should be punished. Although the leaks are regrettable, they in no way excuse any criminal conduct that may have occurred. Some have raised questions about the way the investigation was conducted by the FBI, but I believe that this is not the time for Congress to be investigating the investigators. If and when any of the cases go to court, the courts will determine whether the FBI's methods were such that they were prejudicial to the defendants. With respect to the inquiry, the Department of Justice and the Congress have separate and distinct duties and responsibilities. It is hoped that the established House and Senate ethics committees will discharge those responsibilities without delaying the criminal investigation. It is imperative that the judicial process go forward as quickly as possible, so that those who may have committed crimes may be punished, and those innocent may be cleared. In this manner, faith in government may be restored. February 20, 1980