The Miami Herald is reporting that the county’s ethics commission public advocate has found “probable cause” that Police Chief John Timoney folded to reveal the Lexus that he “borrowed” from a dealer earlier that year. (Timoney later bought the car, but only after Channel 4 and the police union outed him).

According to the Herald, “Public advocate Michael Murawski found that Timoney should have disclosed the gift with the county and state.”

Ya think?

The best part is Timoney’s reaction: ”Bottom line, I don’t think that is a gift,” he said.

Ok. Let’s assess. Someone — say, Santa Claus, or perhaps, the owner of a car dealership — gives you a shiny Lexus hybrid SUV. And tells you that you don’t have to pay for it. Hmm. certain sounds like a gift. Let’s turn to our handy dictionary to look up the word, in case we’re unclear:

“something given voluntarily without payment in return, as to show favor toward someone, honor an occasion, or form a gesture of assistance; present.”

Sure sounds like a gift, Chief. – Tamara Lush