DeWeese calls allegations false, says Manzo has changed story

House Majority Leader Bill DeWeese (D-Greene County) fires back at his accuser in front of a fleet of reporters: Politicker Photo

Embattled House Majority Leader Bill DeWeese fired back at a former aide's accusation that he knew about illegal bonuses paid to House Democratic staffers, calling the accuser a "desperate, disgruntled former employee."

Michael Manzo, DeWeese's former chief of staff, made the explosive testimony Wednesday morning at a Dauphin County courthouse.

DeWeese started his prepared remarks, which he made just outside the state House after emerging from the chamber, by saying he would normally not comment on a court case.

"But because of the seriousness of the situation, let me say this: Mike Manzo's speculation that I knew about his criminal acts is absolutely false and there is no evidence to support his opinion," DeWeese said. "In fact, the grand jury described in detail the steps that those now charged took to keep their scheme secret."

DeWeese's strategy was simple -- go after his accuser. 

"He has lied to his wife, to his girlfriend, to investigators and to me," he said. "His motives are suspect and his opinions are just not credible."

The presentment made by the attorney general in July alleged Manzo cheated on his wife, Rachel Manzo, with the winner of a local beauty pageant in DeWeese's home district. Michael Manzo is now trying to protect he and his wife, who is also charged as part of "Bonusgate,"  from "serious criminal charges," DeWeese said.

Manzo has changed his story, the majority leader said.

"Early in 2007, in the presence of numerous witnesses, he twice told law enforcement that I had nothing to do with it," DeWeese said. "He has since told several people inside our caucus that I had nothing to do with it.

"Now, he and his wife are criminal defendants facing lengthy prison sentences and he is changing his story," he continued. "I knew on the day I fired him there was a risk that he would retaliate against me with false charges but I fired him because it was the right thing to do."

DeWeese faces a difficult re-election battle this fall against Republican Greg Hopkins, who nearly defeated him in 2006.

The longtime incumbent is confident the latest scandal won't take him down, saying he's knocked on thousands of doors to convince constituents he's ready for another term.