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Following Ohio Lottery director’s abrupt departure, governor launches investigation

April 13, 2023 · 9:00pm ET | 6:00pm PT
Photo: Shutterstock
  • Phil Trexler, WKYC-TV

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine has announced an independent investigation into alleged “HR irregularities” involving former state lottery director Pat McDonald, who they originally said retired abruptly Wednesday for health reasons.

On Thursday, DeWine’s spokesman Dan Tierney said the investigation into potential “HR irregularities” will be conducted by an outside firm.

However, he disputed accounts that McDonald was escorted from his office Wednesday by state troopers. Instead, Tierney said the escorts accompanying McDonald after his resignation Wednesday were two members of DeWine’s staff: Chief of Staff Stephanie McCloud and Chief Counsel Matthew Donahue…

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Tierney would not comment further and he would not say if McDonald’s resignation was requested by DeWine.