Gov. calls Expressway board member's indictment 'disappointing'

LAKE MARY, Fla. — Gov. Rick Scott is speaking out Friday about the indictment of Expressway Authority Vice Chairman Scott Batterson.

Batterson is free on bond, following his indictment on federal charges.

The governor appointed Batterson to the Expressway Authority board in 2011.

Batterson is facing charges of solicitation to commit bribery and two counts of unlawful compensation.

Gov. Rick Scott called Batterson's indictment "disappointing."

Batterson would not talk to WFTV after his indictment as he left his lawyer's office.

He turned himself in at the Seminole County Jail Thursday night and posted a $2,800 bail.

Batterson is accused of promising Expressway Authority work to a contractor in exchange for hiring the subcontractors he wanted for the work.

Scott suspended Batterson from the board.

WFTV asked Scott why he doesn't demand Batterson's resignation.

"First, let me thank the state attorney for his work. The indictment is disappointing. Public officials should be held to higher standards. I did the right thing, and I will fill positions on commissions or boards as quickly as I can," said Scott.

State attorney Jeff Ashton said the grand jury is not finished with the Expressway Authority. It will meet at least once more to investigate the toll agency, and Ashton said there could be more indictments.

WFTV