Denver’s Board of Ethics voted unanimously to investigate City Attorney Miko Brown over allegations she steered lucrative city contracts to her former law firm, raising serious questions about conflicts of interest and taxpayer spending in the Mile High City.
Ethics Complaints Target Former Law Firm Partner
The board advanced two separate ethics complaints against Brown on Wednesday, both centered on accusations that she directed Denver legal business to Wheeler Trigg O’Donnell, where Brown worked as a partner for ten years before joining city government. The unanimous 3-0 vote does not mean Brown violated ethics codes, but indicates the board found sufficient evidence warranting formal investigation rather than dismissing the complaints as frivolous or groundless.
One complaint came from an anonymous city employee who expressed fear of retaliation from Brown and Mayor Michael Johnston. The complaint questioned Brown’s role in hiring Wheeler Trigg O’Donnell after the firm billed Denver more than $850,000 in just four months, despite a one-year contract initially capped at $470,000. Lawyers from the firm charged Denver as much as $800 per hour.
Airport Contract Under Scrutiny
The second complaint involves Denver International Airport, where Brown allegedly pressured an insurance broker to hire Wheeler Trigg O’Donnell for legal work related to an unspecified incident. The insurance company ultimately retained the firm along with another national law firm. Brown’s office disputes these allegations, stating she did not pressure anyone and that the insurance company, not Denver taxpayers, paid the legal fees in that matter.
Brown has refused to identify the five-person committee that selected Wheeler Trigg O’Donnell or specify her role in the selection process. Her spokesperson said the firm was chosen based on past work, qualifications, and fee structure. Denver City Council member Flor Alvidrez has demanded answers about the selection process and funding sources but said she has received none.
Investigation Timeline and Consequences
Under Denver ethics rules, the board can investigate complaints and determine whether violations occurred. If the board finds wrongdoing by an appointed official, it can recommend corrective action including discipline to the appointing authority. Brown has the right to a public hearing on the complaints. The board will continue reviewing information until questions are answered, according to executive director Lori Weiser.