EPA Watchdog's Inquiry Into Pruitt's Practices Will Continue

Scott Pruitt may have left the Environmental Protection Agency, but his resignation won't liberate him of the myriad inquiries and investigations into his behavior, ethical missteps and spendthrift practices, The Washington Post reports.

The agency's inspector general said Thursday that at least five audits will continue into Pruitt, "all of which focus on programmatic, systemic and/or operational agency issues," EPA IG spokesman Kentia Elbaum said.

The ongoing probes ensure that Pruitt's name and legacy will continue to linger for another month, at least. Pruitt was the subject of no less than 12 federal investigations at the time of his departure.

The audits that will continue include, according to the EPA:

• Pruitt's round-the-clock security detail.
• Pruitt's habit of flying first class.
• Pruitt's end-around of a drinking water law to grant huge pay raises to two aides.

Further, House Oversight Committee Chairman Rep. Trey Gowdy will continue with his panel's investigation into Pruitt's practices.

One probe conducted - and concluded - by the General Accountability Office found that Pruitt's purchase of a $43,000 soundproof booth broke federal spending laws.

The Post also reported that if there were any criminal investigations into Pruitt - the IG's office would not say if there were - they, too, would continue.

• Several of Pruitt's top Aides are Leaving EPA
• Source: Pruitt Was Told to Resign in Call From White House