ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — The Latest on University of New Mexico Athletics Department spending (all times local):
New Mexico Attorney General Hector Balderas says he's pleased that University of New Mexico athletic director Paul Krebs is stepping down but that his office's look at athletic department spending will continue.
Balderas says in a statement reacting to Krebs' announcement Friday of his intention to retire June 30 that public officials who leave office "can still face legal consequences for actions they took while in office."
Balderas' office is conducting a formal inquiry into department spending, and State Auditor Tim Keller announced late Thursday that his office is expanding its own review.
The auditor was initially focused on spending related to a 2015 golf trip to Scotland that included department officials and donors.
Krebs has said the $65,000 trip was meant to strengthen relationships with donors. Critics argue that it should have been paid for by the university's independent fundraising arm.
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8:20 a.m.
University of New Mexico athletic director Paul Krebs is announcing his retirement, a move that comes amid criticism over spending by the athletics department.
A statement released Friday by the university says Krebs will retire June 30 and quotes him as saying he's proud of his 11 years as athletic director.
State Auditor Tim Keller announced late Thursday that his office is expanding its review into the spending of public money by the department.
The auditor was initially focused on spending related to a 2015 golf trip to Scotland that included department officials and donors.
Krebs has said the $65,000 trip was meant to strengthen relationships with donors. Critics argue that it should have been paid for by the university's independent fundraising arm.
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2:50 a.m.
The state Auditor's Office is expanding its review into the spending of public money by the University of New Mexico's athletics department.
Auditor Tim Keller said late Thursday that he has designated the university for a special audit and that it was important to get to the bottom of questions raised about expenses, compensation and perks for donors and senior staff in the athletics department.
Keller sent a letter to the university's leadership this week informing them of the expanded inquiry and requesting access to documents and staff.
The auditor was initially focused on spending related to a 2015 golf trip to Scotland that included athletics department officials and donors. The state attorney general's office also launched a formal inquiry into the matter.
University officials have said they will cooperate with state authorities.