Council To Consider Barry Probe

D.C. Council Chairman Vincent Gray was on the defensive Monday over possibly delaying any council action involving Councilman Marion Barry.

Gray's office confirmed Monday evening that there will be an additional legislative session Tuesday afternoon following the regular council meeting. The additional session will address the findings of a special investigation by attorney Robert Bennett into contracts Barry gave to a girlfriend and other associates.

The council was expected to censure Barry Tuesday and take away his committee chairmanship, but Gray said the council might need more time before acting.

However, at-large Councilmember Kwame Brown posted the following message on his Twitter account Tuesday morning: "There will be some actions taken against Councilmember Marion Barry."

So Brown, unlike Gray, seems to be ready to move ahead with action against Barry.

Barry, for his part, apologized last week. He denied any legal wrongdoing, but admitted his city council contracting "was a violation of ... good and sound judgment."

"I didn't use good judgment in recommending a contract to a person whom I was involved with personally," Barry said.

He said he should have ended his stormy relationship with Donna Watts-Brighthaupt or ended the contract.

"I know my actions, my lack of sound judgment ... led to embarrassment to the city and put political pressure on my colleagues," Barry said. " Truly apologize ... I am truly sorry. I intend to work as hard as I can to help repair the damage."

Barry's attorney, Fred Cooke, maintains his client did nothing illegal.

The council's special session is estimated to begin at 3 p.m. Tuesday.

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