FAIRHOPE, Ala. - Police Chief Bill Press returns to Montgomery today for the continuation of a June hearing before the Alabama Ethics Commission, which is expected to rule this afternoon on a complaint that he violated state law in how a private police bank account was used to handle off-duty officer employment.

“The commission voted in open session to carry it over to the August meeting just to get a few unanswered questions resolved,” said Hugh Evans, the agency’s general counsel. “So, it will be concluded (today).”

The ethics complaint was initiated by a letter sent last year by Mayor Tim Kant, after seeking advice from Gulf Shores attorney David Whetstone.

After today’s hearing, the agency will vote whether probable cause exists to refer the case for prosecution.

For the June meeting, Press traveled to Montgomery with his attorney Vince Kilborn and Councilman Rick Kingrea on an airplane reportedly owned by Kilborn. Evans said the flight did not create possible ethical violations for either Kingrea or Press.

“Press and his attorney asked (him) to testify,” Evans said. “There is nothing wrong with their providing transportation in these circumstances. (His) attendance was basically compelled. (And) I’m sure Vince Kilborn charged Press for the transportation. No difference in an attorney and client taking attorney’s car and driving to the courthouse.”

Editor’s note: The agency’s ruling on the ethics complaint against Press will be posted here as soon as available today.