Subpoenas Due In Palin Trooper Probe

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(CBS/AP) The Alaska Legislature is hastening its ethics investigation into Gov. Sarah Palin's firing of her public safety commissioner, announcing that a report on the matter will be released three weeks earlier than previously announced.

A lawyer for Palin had said earlier this week that the governor would not speak to investigators, preferring to have the investigation transferred to a state personnel board (whose three members are appointed by the governor) for review. Palin had previously said she would cooperate with the probe.

In addition, seven witnesses told the Legislature's investigator they will refuse depositions and canceled their meetings.

In response, State Sen. Hollis French, who is overseeing the investigation into whether Palin abused her power, said the Legislature will subpoena these witnesses.

Palin was not on the list of those to expect subpoenas. French told the Anchorage Daily News that legislators decided not to subpoena Palin as a way to "de-escalate the situation" given the tension that has arisen between the Governor's office and the inquiry. But they clearly expect her to live up to her earlier promise to talk to investigators.

"We just want the truth, clear the air," French told the paper.
http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2008/09/06/politics/printable4422385.shtml