Brizzi delivers Durham message on Facebook

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - Marion County Prosecutor Carl Brizzi is turning to his Facebook page to address some persistent questions involving his association with Indianapolis businessman Tim Durham.

Federal investigators say Durham mishandled money from the companies he owns.

In a Facebook post, Brizzi echoes comments he made in a 24-Hour News 8 interview last week -- Read the transcript . In the interview, he described campaign financing provided by Durham.

"Tim's a friend and he helped raise a good bit of money and also contributed a lot of money as well," said the prosecutor.

The Facebook post details such contributions.

Brizzi wrote, "Over the course of the 4 years leading up to my re-election, Durham contributed nearly $140,000 and in-kinded event costs and transportation with a total valued at roughly $30,000. In the last 3 years, he has contributed $2,500 and in-kinded event costs valued at roughly $17,000."

Fair Finance is one of the Durham holdings under investigation. Brizzi joined Fair's Board of Directors in September.

On Facebook, Brizzi wrote, "I should have conducted greater due diligence with regard to Fair Financial before agreeing to serve on the board."

He described his regrets and concluded his Facebook message much like he finished the 24-Hour News 8 interview, insisting that he is focused on prosecuting criminals.

Brizzi also reported $7,500 he has in a company associated with Durham. That company, CLST Holdings, is under investigation by the Securities and Exchange Commission. Brizzi said he began buying CLST stock in 2005 after discussing investments with friends and financial advisers as part of his overall investment planning.