City probes use of public funds in Nashville mayor's affair

In this Aug. 28, 2017, photo, Nashville Mayor Megan Barry speaks at the Fraternal Order of Police convention in Nashville, Tenn. Barry revealed Wednesday, Jan. 31, 2018, that she had an extramarital affair with the former head of her security detail, apologizing and indicating she plans to continue serving in office. (AP Photo/Mark Humphrey)
In this Aug. 28, 2017, photo, Nashville Mayor Megan Barry speaks at the Fraternal Order of Police convention in Nashville, Tenn. Barry revealed Wednesday, Jan. 31, 2018, that she had an extramarital affair with the former head of her security detail, apologizing and indicating she plans to continue serving in office. (AP Photo/Mark Humphrey)

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) - A special committee of Nashville city council members will investigate whether there was improper use of public money during Mayor Megan Barry's extramarital affair with the former head of her security detail.

News outlets report the Metro Council voted 30-7 to create the committee, invoking an authority not used since 1974 and never against a mayor.

The committee will probe travel and overtime expenses for Barry and Sgt. Rob Forrest, who retired after they disclosed the affair.

Barry spokesman Sean Braisted says the mayor welcomes any investigations. The mayor's office has said taxpayer dollars weren't used to support the affair.

The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation also is looking into whether any public funds were misused in violation of state law.

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