“People are innocent until proven guilty. I don’t think anything will come of the investigation.” – Student Association President Samantha Prahl

The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Student Association is looking into last year’s financial records in light of the ongoing investigation being conducted by UWM Police into an alleged illegal check written to ex-housing president and current SA Speaker Russ Rueden.

SA is investigating the organization’s accounts from last year, and will swiftly act on any discovered violations, said SA President Samantha Prahl.

“SA remains vigilant on corruption … No violations have been found yet, but if something turns up, I will appoint a committee and do what is necessary,” Prahl said.

Rueden is being investigated for a $10,000 check he received from former Student Housing Administration Council president Matt Franson for services to be rendered by Rueden’s advertising firm AcerPrudens. Current SHAC president Jesse Dercks claims that the organization has received nothing from the firm and that the check was written in violation of SHAC bylaws.

SA has its own separate fund-raising account just like SHAC, with any money allocation of over $150 requiring approval from the Senate.

Prahl said that Rueden has continued to fulfill all of his duties as SA speaker and is will continue to be on the payroll during the investigation.

“People are innocent until proven guilty. I don’t think anything will come of the investigation,” Prahl said.

Others are more skeptical.

“I had concerns last year,” said Raymond Duncan, Senate speaker last year. “Russ wanted to raise the limit that would require Senate approval. He saw it (getting Senate approval) as extra work.”

The investigation surrounding the Rueden case is ongoing, and it is unknown when or if any action will be taken, said Lt. Ernest Meress of the UWM Police.

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