Michigan Representative Steve Marino Posts:
"The unfortunate reality is that many people in our society have experienced domestic abuse, which often comes from someone we would never expect," Manoogian said. "None of us are immune to a volatile relationship, regardless of our career.
Representative Steve Marino: 24th District (Clinton Township, Macomb Township, Harrison Township)
OPINION
It’s time for pair of Macomb officeholders to step down
Macomb Daily
JEFF PAYNE
September 26, 2021
The case of Karen Spranger taught us what can be done when our political leaders are not fit for office.
Prior to her stunning ascension to the Macomb County Clerk and Register of Deeds post, Spranger was best known for wearing dark glasses and even a tin foil suit to protest smart meters at Warren City Council sessions.
From the day she was elected, Spranger was a disrupter in a post where disruption can be problematic. The county clerk’s office has very real everyday functions to carry out, not the least of which is processing critical documents. Under Spranger’s leadership, an office that had run like a well-oiled machine for years started to sputter.
That, combined with Spranger’s eccentric personality, motivated political foes to dig up dirt on her. For all of her issues, her undoing was her inability to prove she lived in the home she listed on a signed affidavit filed as part of her candidacy.
The will to remove Spranger from office was strong and came from both major political parties.
Which begs the question, where are those same forces when a judge and state representative are respectively fleecing and embarrassing the voters who put them in office?
Macomb County Probate Judge Kathryn George and State Rep. Steve Marino are at best unfit to hold the offices they serve and at worst causing harm by holding on to their posts.
George, who was removed as chief judge of the probate court in 2008 due to what the Michigan Supreme Court deemed her “questionable overuse” of a guardianship firm, has managed to hold on to her seat on the bench, which comes with a more than $155,000 salary, despite a number of missteps over the years.
That includes being reelected last November despite the fact she missed nearly two-thirds of work days due to being on medical leave for a condition about which she and her confidantes refuse to disclose information.
As Macomb Daily reporter Jameson Cook reported earlier this month, she has not been on the bench for a single day in 2021. Her absence is causing a hefty docket to back up, so much so that Chief Judge James Biernat Jr. has moved circuit Judge Carl Marlinga to Probate Court to handle George’s wills and estates cases. Biernat and circuit Judge Matthew Switalski are now handling George’s mental incapacity and developmentally disabled docket.
If George indeed has a condition that prevents her from sitting on the bench, it’s clear she should retire. At 70 years old, she is eligible for the pension program that covers judicial employees. There are a number of experienced county attorneys who could be appointed to the post and help restore order to the court.
Meanwhile, in Lansing, Harrison Township and St. Clair Shores residents have no voice thanks to the issues that come with having a state representative who is unfit for office.
Marino was first elected to the county Board of Commissioners in 2014. In that campaign he showed his stripes by making an issue of the fact his opponent declared personal bankruptcy a decade earlier as a result of medical bills that piled up during the care of his late wife.
Since then, Marino has been at the center of a number of controversies that resulted in being subpoenaed by the FBI during the prosecution of a northern Michigan lawmaker and, most recently being stripped of his committee assignments after it was revealed he made vile threats against an Oakland County representative with whom he previously had a romantic relationship.
Marino, 32, refused interview requests from The Macomb Daily but did offer this statement: “The insinuations made are nothing more than politically motivated character assassination that I am confident will conclude as a waste of the public’s time. I look forward to fulfilling my duties and maintaining the trust I’ve worked so hard to build during my seven years in public office.”
It’s not fair to link words like trust with Marino, who has demonstrated virtually no morals during his nearly seven years of holding office.
In a county that has known far too many shady characters over the years, from the FBI Rizzo corruption probe that has put both public officeholders and municipal employees behind bars to the stunning fall of former prosecutor Eric Smith, who made funds collected by his office his personal checkbook, characters like Marino add to our county’s notorious reputation.
If Marino truly wants to do what is best for his House district, it is time to resign.
Republican calls for state Rep. Marino’s removal from office
Macomb Daily
September 26, 2021
Should embattled Republican state Rep. Steve Marino of Harrison Township step down from office?
At least one Republican in Macomb County believes so, but others say he deserves his day in court to challenge the allegations against him by an Oakland County Democratic lawmaker.
The term-limited Marino is facing accusations of domestic abuse made by fellow state Rep. Mari Manoogian after what she described as a volatile relationship that ended in a flurry of intimidating text messages.
Bill Revoir, a Republican who served three terms on the Macomb County Board of Commissioners and lost to Marino in the 2020 election, says the 24th House District needs a representative they can trust and one who can get things done.
“I am calling on (House Speaker) Jason Wentworth to formally ask for Marino’s resignation and fill his seat with someone else until the next election,” Revoir said this week. “As a resident of the 24th District, I don’t have any representation right now. It would be better for Mr. Marino to resign and sort out his life away from the public eye.”
As soon as news of the Marino texts broke last week, Wentworth, a Republican from Farwell, immediately removed Marino from all committee assignments, including his chairing the House Commerce and Tourism Committee, and membership of the Local Government and Municipal Finance Committee.
A spokesman for Wentworth said Marino can enter the state Capitol in Lansing for caucus and to vote. He can enter the House Office Building to access his office for official business, said spokesman Gideon D’Assandro.
Responding to the call for Marino to resign, “the speaker is going to let the legal process play out before he takes further action,” D’Assandro said.
Marino, 32, and Manoogian, 29, had a personal relationship that ended more than a year ago. In the months that followed, Marino sent a series of texts to her. She filed for a personal protection order that was granted.
According to a court filing to support the PPO, Manoogian said the texts contained threats such as he hoped her “car explodes on the way in,” and “you’re truly the worst human being I’ve ever met…just a parasite.”
Michigan State Police have opened a criminal investigation into the messages, according to a department spokesperson.
Crude as the messages are, they may not really rise to the level of threats, said Marino’s Detroit-based attorney Michael Rataj.
Rataj, a Macomb County native, plans to challenge the PPO. A hearing is expected to be held sometime in October.
Rataj said he had no response to Revoir’s call for Marino to resign from office.
“Who really cares what he thinks,” he said.
“Didn’t he ever hear of due process? (Revoir) is probably one of those Republicans who believes in ‘stop the steal’ concerning (Donald) Trump. That’s so anti-democratic. I think they all should be shipped out. They should all just disappear.”
Revoir, 67, a financial and retirement adviser challenged Marino in the 2020 elections because he was concerned by the incumbent’s mounting list of transgressions.
Those included having the worst voting record of the years — he missed 46% of the House votes in 2020, the most of any member in the Legislature — and his name came up repeatedly in court testimony during a 2019 bribery case that targeted another House member. He was able to avoid being served with an FBI subpoena after numerous attempts.
‘Question of ethics’
“It’s a question of ethics,” Revoir said. “I understand he is in his final term and is term limited, and both parties are going to resist forcing anyone to resign. But I think these are excessively egregious charges against him that have reached his ability to cast votes because of the PPO.”
Marino easily sailed to victory over Revoir by an 83.7%-to-16.3% margin in Republican primary for the heavily conservative 24th District, which including Harrison Township and parts of Clinton and Macomb Townships.
A former lobbyist and Macomb County commissioner, Marino was first elected to the state house in 2016. He was re-elected three times.
Other Macomb County Republicans also agreed Marino deserves a chance to defend himself against the charges.
Peter Lucido, the current county prosecutor, had his own troubles in Lansing when he was accused of inappropriate behavior toward women while serving as a state senator. The Shelby Township official was removed as chair of the powerful Advice and Consent Committee and ordered to undergo additional training.
Marino’s conduct should ultimately be judged by the voters, Lucido said.
“For one thing, we haven’t heard both sides of the controversy. Aren’t we presumed innocent until proven guilty in America? I don’t see anything in these reported allegations that should lead to his removal,” he said.
Macomb County Public Works Director Candice Miller disagreed with Lucido about Marino being removed from committees, but stopped short of calling for his removal from office.
“Obviously, the speaker has seen some things that went into his decision,” said Miller, a former Congress member and Michigan Secretary of State. “I feel that was the appropriate move to remove him from the committees. I think the speaker did the right thing.”
Miller went on to say she would like to see “a bit more of an investigation” into the matter before deciding if the lawmaker should quit.
Barbara Zinner, who represents Harrison Township on the Macomb County Board of Commissioners, said she hasn’t made up her mind.
“All I can say is if an elected official has committed something truly egregious, they should probably go, but I am not privy to all of what is happening,” she said.
Accused legislator needs escort at work
Ann Arbor News, The (MI)
September 23, 2021
The Michigan lawmaker accused of harassing a colleague will need to be escorted by House sergeants-at-arms to the House floor and his office to prevent potential violations of a personal protection order, according to a spokesperson for House Speaker Jason Wentworth.
State Rep. Steve Marino, R-Harrison Township, is legally allowed to go to the House floor for work despite a personal protection order recently granted to fellow Rep. Mari Manoogian, D-Birmingham, Wentworth spokesperson Gideon D’Assandro said.
Marino has been asked to inform House sergeants when he goes into either the Capitol or House Office Building and remain confined to his desk, in the House Republican caucus room or on his floor of the House Office Building. He will need to be escorted when heading to his office or the House floor “just to make sure that there’s no contact between the two,” D’Assandro said.
“He can be here for caucus meetings and votes,” D’Assandro said. “That’s what’s allowed under the law.”
Marino was not present on the House floor Tuesday for the session, a decision D’Assandro said was Marino’s choice. Manoogian was present.
The two lawmakers were in a relationship over a year ago that Manoogian described as “volatile.” Marino last week was removed from his committee assignments after communications between Marino and Manoogian were brought to House leadership. An investigation by law enforcement is ongoing.
Despite PPO, Rep. Marino Is Still Allowed In Capitol, House Office Building
"He repeatedly tells me that he hopes I get in a car crash on my commute to Lansing, and that he hopes my car will blow up," Manoogian said.
The Patch
September 23, 2021
After state Rep. Steve Marino (R-Harrison Twp.) allegedly told Rep. Mari Manoogian (D-Birmingham) that he was making it his "life mission to destroy you" and he hoped her car exploded on her way to work, the Democratic lawmaker said she is deeply concerned for her well-being and is terrified to be in the same building as him, according to recently filed court documents.
"I am afraid of Steve," Manoogian said in a Personal Protection Order (PPO) petition filed in an Ingham County court on Friday. "He repeatedly tells me that he hopes I get in a car crash on my commute to Lansing, and that he hopes my car will blow up."
In the petition for the PPO, which was granted Friday by 30th Circuit Judge Lisa McCormick, Manoogian alleges the physical, emotional and verbal abuse she faced from Marino after the two lawmakers ended a brief romantic relationship at the end of 2019.
"He told me that I better hide because he was going to sit by my desk and ream me a new asshole until he leaves the House," Manoogian said in the court documents.
Marino did not respond to a request for comment. His lawyer, Mike Rataj, wrote in an email Tuesday that, "my counsel, Mary Chartier, and I will be filing a motion to set aside the PPO."
Last week, Marino issued a statement to the media that said, "I will be clear: the insinuations made are nothing more than politically motivated character assassination that I am confident will conclude as a waste of the public's time."
Manoogian wrote in the court documents that she feels unsafe at both home and work.
"Steve knows where I live and knows where my parents and younger sister live," the lawmaker said in the court documents. "Not only does he know my routines, as colleagues we are to be in the same building at the same time when the House of Representatives is in session."
"I live alone and I am scared that Steve's mental health will continue to deteriorate while his attention and anger are fixated on me," Manoogian continued.
Gideon D'Assandro, a spokesman for House Speaker Jason Wentworth (R-Clare), wrote in an email Tuesday that Marino "can enter the Capitol for caucus and to vote."
Both Marino and Manoogian have offices in the House Office Building. Marino also "can enter the House Office Building to access his office for official business," D'Assandro wrote.
Last week, Wentworth stripped Marino of his committee assignments without explanation. The next day, Manoogian issued a statement accusing Marino of domestic abuse.
"None of us are immune to a volatile relationship, regardless of our career," Manoogian said at the time. "It can happen right here in our legislature, where abuse of power and threats to ruin a colleague's reputation, as well as threats of public shaming, can be used to intimidate fellow members of the legislature."
In addition to the PPO filed against Marino, the Michigan State Police confirmed they are conducting a criminal investigation into Marino.
According to the court documents, Manoogian said the abuse began after she and Marino ended their four-month relationship at the end of 2019. At the start of 2020, "Steve's behavior toward me changed dramatically," Manoogian wrote in the PPO petition.
"Face to face and over text, Steve began threatening me and harassing me," Manoogian wrote. "It has escalated to a point where I fear for my safety and for Steve's own safety. I believe he is mentally unstable and that he might try to cause harm to himself or to others as the truth of abusive behavior comes to light and he is held accountable for the things he has said and done."
Marino has "emotionally and verbally abused me relentlessly," Manoogian said in the court documents.
"He also physically abused me," she wrote. "I do not like hugs, I am not a touchy-feely person. Steve knows this. He chased me around his apartment and held me against my will in a 'hug' until I cried."
In copies of texts provided to the court, Marino wrote to Manoogian that, "You're truly the worst human being I've ever met. I mean that with the utmost sincerity. Just a parasite."
Manoogian wrote in the court documents that Marino will often tell her that "he has no friends and that no one cares about him, in order to gain my sympathy, and threatens to harm his dog, Shadow, if I do not spend time with him."
"Conversely, he's also told that I am stupid, that I deserve to be alone, and that no one will ever love me," Manoogian said in the PPO filing.
Following Manoogian's allegations of abuse, the Democratic lawmaker said she has experienced an outpouring of support.
"I want to express my gratitude towards the large community of individuals who have, without hesitation, supported my family and me during this difficult time," she wrote in a Sept. 18 statement posted to Twitter. "I have placed my faith in the judicial system. I'm confident Steve will be held accountable for his actions and that the truth will prevail."
Michigan state lawmaker told colleague he hoped her 'car explodes on the way in'
The Hill
September 22, 2021
Michigan state Rep. Steve Marino (R) allegedly told Michigan state Rep. Mari Manoogian (D) via text that he would destroy her life and that he hoped her "car explodes."
Earlier this month, the two Michigan lawmakers confirmed that they had once been in a romantic relationship, with Manoogian accusing Marino of domestic abuse. Marino was soon after stripped of all his committee assignments, and Michigan State Police have opened an investigation into the allegations.
As The Detroit News reported this week, text messages that were included in a filing from Manoogian to obtain a personal protection order (PPO) order showed Marino telling Manoogian that he hoped her "car explodes on the way in" as they discussed work on the House Commerce and Tourism Committee, on which they both served at the time.
"You're truly the worst human being I've ever met. I mean that with the utmost sincerity. Just a parasite," Marino wrote.
He also reportedly told her to "hide on the House floor" because he planned to "park right next to your desk and ream you a new asshole each session day until I leave that place."
According to The Detroit News, it is unclear when these texts were written.
In her order, Manoogian wrote that "after trying to ignore Steve's threats and harassment for 21 months, and begging him to stop texting me in this harassing manner countless times, I had no choice but to report his abuse to my Democratic Leader."
"The way that Steve switches his hateful anger on and off towards me is unhealthy, it terrifies me, and it makes me believe he is suffering from a legitimate mental break of some type," she added.
Last week, Manoogian's lawyer Kelly McClintock confirmed that a PPO had been secured. This move will theoretically prevent Marino from being on the House floor at the same time as Manoogian, as he has been barred from being on the same property as her.
When confirming their relationship earlier this month, Marino said the allegations made against him were a "politically motivated character assassination" and a "a waste of the public's time."
"These statements are so out of context, and we’re simply going to move to set it aside," Mike Rataj, a lawyer for Marino, said in a statement to The Detroit News.
"We’ll have a lot more to say once we get into court," Rataj added.
House says Marino can attend session despite Manoogian's PPO
Detroit News, The (MI)
September 22, 2021
Lansing – A House lawmaker who is the subject of a personal protection order and Michigan State Police investigation will be allowed on the House floor even though the order prevents him from occupying the same property as his accuser, Rep. Mari Manoogian.
Republican state Rep. Steve Marino, a 31-year-old Republican from Harrison Township, will be allowed to enter the Capitol for caucus and vote during session, said Gideon D'Assandro, a spokesman for House Speaker Jason Wentworth, R-Farwell.
Marino also will be allowed to enter the House Office Building to gain access to his office, D'Assandro said. The lawmaker must notify House sergeants when he intends to attend House session or visit his office and will receive an escort from House sergeants to those locations to prevent contact between Marino and Manoogian, D'Assandro added.
"This is the reading of the human resources (officials) and attorneys on what is allowed and what isn't," he said.
Marino was removed from his committee assignments last week after allegations arose that he threatened Manoogian, a 29-year-old Birmingham Democrat, with whom he had a previous relationship.
Marino did not attend session Tuesday by his own choice, D'Assando said.
Manoogian secured a personal protection order against Marino last week that included prohibitions about the two occupying the same property.
House leadership, lawyers and sergeants were reviewing the order up until Tuesday morning, when D'Assandro clarified the policy. The House and Senate are expected to vote this week on the state budget.
Marino, a third-term lawmaker who had a relationship with Manoogian in late 2019, texted the Birmingham lawmaker to say he would make it his "life mission to destroy" her and that he hoped her "car explodes on the way in" to session, according to screenshots contained in Manoogian's PPO petition.
It's not clear from the screenshots in the court filing when the texts were written.
In a separate screenshot, Marino told Manoogian to "hide on the House Floor."
"... because I'm going to park right next to your desk and ream you a new ---hole each session day until I leave that place," he wrote, according to the screenshot.
Manoogian responded, "I just woke up. What."
Marino wrote back: "There should be a Citizen's Guide to State Government on your desk...courtesy of my office."
Marino's lawyer, Mike Rataj, has said the texts contained in the PPO were "so out of context" and that he would move to set aside the order. Marino has said the allegations against him were a "character assassination."
In her PPO petition, Manoogian said Marino "emotionally and verbally abused me relentlessly" following their late 2019 break-up.
"Face to face and over text, Steve began threatening me and harassing me," Manoogian wrote in her PPO petition. "It has escalated to a point where I fear for my safety and for Steve's own safety."
Michigan State Police confirmed last week that the agency was investigating allegations against Marino.
Michigan lawmaker accused of harassing colleague can come to work, but will need escort
MLive
Sep. 21, 2021
A Michigan lawmaker accused of harassing his colleague will need to be escorted by House sergeants to the House floor and his office to prevent potential violations of a personal protection order, according to a spokesperson for House Speaker Jason Wentworth.
State Rep. Steve Marino, R-Harrison Township, is legally allowed to come to the House floor for work despite a personal protection order recently granted to fellow Rep. Mari Manoogian, D-Birmingham, Wentworth spokesperson Gideon D’Assandro said.
Marino has been asked to inform House sergeants when he comes into either the Capitol or House Office Building and remain confined to his desk, in the House Republican caucus room or on his floor of the House Office Building. He will need to be escorted by a sergeant when heading to his office or the House floor “just to make sure that there’s no contact between the two,” D’Assandro said.
“He can be here for caucus meetings and votes,” D’Assandro said. “That’s what’s allowed under the law.”
Marino was not present on the House floor Tuesday for session, a decision D’Assandro said was Marino’s choice. Manoogian was present.
The two lawmakers were in a relationship over a year ago that Manoogian described as “volatile.” Marino was last week removed from his committee assignments after communications between Marino and Manoogian were brought to House leadership, and an investigation by law enforcement into the situation is ongoing.
In a statement issued last week, Marino claimed the allegations are “nothing more than politically motivated character assassination.”
Text messages filed in court with Manoogian’s request for a personal protection order show Marino told her that he hoped her “car explodes on the way in” and warned her to “hide on the House floor,” according to the Associated Press.
“You’re truly the worst human being I’ve ever met. I mean that with the utmost sincerity. Just a parasite,” one of the texts read.
A statement from Manoogian’s attorney issued after the personal protection order was granted said it was issued to ensure her safety and well being and was “based on the court determining that irreparable harm was likely to occur from the delay required to effect notice.”
D’Assandro said Wentworth made the committee changes he did both because Marino and Manoogian were serving on the same committee and because he wanted to “prioritize Rep. Manoogian’s safety and peace of mind.”
Michigan Rep. Steve Marino vowed to ‘destroy’ lawmaker he dated: court docs
NY Post
September 21, 2021
A Michigan lawmaker told a fellow legislator whom he briefly dated that he’d make it his “life mission to destroy” her and hoped her “car explodes,” court records show.
Rep. Steve Marino, a third-term Republican from Harrison Township, also warned Democratic Rep. Mari Manoogian to “hide on the House floor” in a series of text messages as they discussed business for the House Commerce and Tourism Committee, according to screenshots in Michigan court records obtained by the Detroit News.
“You’re truly the worst human being I’ve ever met,” Marino, 32, wrote Manoogian, a 29-year-old Birmingham Democrat whom the GOP lawmaker has said he dated more than a year ago. “I mean that with the utmost sincerity. Just a parasite.”
It’s unclear when the text messages were written, the Detroit News reported. They were part of Manoogian’s request last week for a personal protection order against Marino, alleging they had a “volatile” relationship that included domestic abuse and threats.
“Face to face and over text, Steve began threatening me and harassing me,” Manoogian wrote in a statement. “It has escalated to a point where I fear for my safety and for Steve’s own safety.”
In one message between the lawmakers included in Manoogian’s request for a personal protection order, Marino warned her to “hide on the House floor” because he was going to park right next to her desk and “ream” her a “new a–hole” each session until he leaves office, the Detroit News reported.
“I just woke up,” Manoogian reportedly responded. “What.”
Manoogian accused Marino of “relentlessly” abusing her emotionally and verbally. He was removed from his House committee assignment last week as Michigan State Police investigate the allegations.
“After trying to ignore Steve’s threats and harassment for 21 months, and begging him to stop texting me in this harassing manner countless times, I had no choice but to report his abuse to my Democratic Leader,” Manoogian wrote in her petition.
Manoogian said she was terrified by Marino’s “hateful anger” while claiming he’s suffering from a “mental break of some type,” according to the petition.
Marino reportedly said in a statement last week that the accusations were “character assassination” while saying his relationship with Manoogian ended over a year earlier.
“These statements are so out of context, and we’re simply going to move to set it aside,” Marino’s attorney, Mike Rataj, said Monday. “We’ll have a lot more to say once we get into court.”
A Michigan State Police spokeswoman said the agency received a complaint on the alleged abuse and threats last week, but declined further comment because an investigation had just begun.
Rep. Marino vowed to 'destroy' Rep. Manoogian in revealed text messages
Detroit Free Press
Sep 21, 2021
Rep. Steve Marino vowed to destroy Rep. Mari Manoogian's life, berating her with obscenities and suggesting he hoped her car exploded on her way to work, according to text messages and other records recently filed in court.
"I'm making it my life mission to destroy you," Marino said to Manoogian in an undated text message, according to Ingham County court records.
The messages and other statements included in records Manoogian used to secure a personal protection order last week demonstrate the emotional, verbal and physical abuse the Birmingham Democrat says she endured at the hands of Marino during and after the pair engaged in a romantic relationship.
Marino, R-Harrison Township, has denied committing any misconduct, previously describing broader allegations of abuse as "insinuations made (that) are nothing more than politically motivated character assassination that I am confident will conclude as a waste of the public's time."
Mike Rataj, an attorney representing Marino, said his client had no comment and declined to address any of the allegations included in the application for the personal protection order.
“My co-counsel Mary Chartier and I will be filing a motion to set aside the PPO," Rataj said in a phone call Tuesday morning.
"We’ll argue the case in open court, not in the newspaper."
The personal protection order for Manoogian was issued last week by 30th Circuit Court Judge Lisa McCormick. She did so after determining that waiting could result in irreparable harm, said Manoogian's lawyer, Kelly McClintock. The order remains in effect for one year, McClintock said.
In the court filings, Manoogian said she dated Marino for about four months in 2019. Everything was fine initially after the relationship ended, but at the start of 2020 Marino's behavior changed. Manoogian said she believes he is mentally unstable.
“Face to face and over text, Steve began threatening me and harassing me. It has escalated to a point where I fear for my safety and for Steve’s own safety," she said in a statement filed with the court.
“I am afraid of Steve. He repeatedly tells me that he hopes I get in a car crash on my commute to Lansing, and that he hopes my car will blow up...He constantly berated me with obscenities, calling me a c---, a b----, and telling me to go f--- myself.”
In one text message, Marino appears to tell Manoogian to "hide on the House floor."
"Because I'm going to park right next to your desk and ream you a new a--hole each session day until I leave that place," Marino stated in a text included in court records.
Manoogian also describes an encounter in Marino's apartment that she says became physically abusive.
"Steve has emotionally and verbally abused me relentlessly. He also physically abused me. I do not like hugs, I am not a touchy-feely person. Steve knows this. He chased me around his apartment and held me against my will in a 'hug' until I cried,” she stated.
Michigan State Police is investigating and House Speaker Jason Wentworth, R-Farwell, removed Marino from all of his committees assignments last week. Manoogian stated said House Minority Leader Donna Lasinski, D-Scio Township, also moved her parking space to a new location.
McClintock has said she believes the personal protection order may bar Marino from being in the same building as Manoogian. However, Marino is not banned by the speaker from going onto the House floor, and the two lawmakers have offices in the same Lansing building.
On Tuesday, Wentworth spokesman Gideon D'Assandro said Marino will be allowed in the Capitol to cast votes on the House floor and to caucus with fellow Republicans. He's also allowed to go to his legislative office "for official business," D'Assandro said.
The House is set to gavel in for a new session at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday.
Michigan Rep To Fellow Lawmaker: I Hope ‘Your Car Explodes’
94.9 WSJM Radio
September 21, 2021
From the Associated Press — A Michigan lawmaker who got a personal protection order against another lawmaker has filed some unflattering text messages in court.
State Representative Mari Manoogian says Representative Steve Marino called her a “parasite” and hoped that her car would explode.
Marino is a Macomb County Republican, and Manoogian is an Oakland County Democrat. They had a personal relationship that ended more than a year ago.
Marino was removed from House committees last week when allegations of abuse were reported to leaders. State police are investigating.
Marino says he’s a victim of “character assassination.” His attorney says the text messages are being taken out of context and that they’ll challenge the protection order.
Macomb County rep to fellow lawmaker: ‘I hope your car explodes’
PPO may prevent Steve Marino’s ability to vote Tuesday
Macomb Daily
September 21, 2021
A Macomb County lawmaker told another lawmaker that he hoped her “car explodes on the way in,” according to text messages filed in court to support a request for a personal protection order.
“You’re truly the worst human being I’ve ever met. I mean that with the utmost sincerity. Just a parasite,” state Rep. Steve Marino told Rep. Mari Manoogian.
Marino, a Harrison Township Republican, and Manoogian, an Oakland County Democrat, had a personal relationship that ended more than a year ago.
Manoogian, 29, obtained a protection order last week from a judge, a few days after Marino, 32, was removed from House committees for alleged abuse.
There was no indication in the court file when the text messages were written, the Detroit News reported.
Michigan State Police last week confirmed an investigation has been opened into the threats, but gave no indication when it would be completed.
Marino, a third-term state rep, said he hoped Manoogian’s “car explodes on the way in” and warned her to “hide on the House floor” in a series of texts in which they also discussed issues being handled by a state House committee.
“After trying to ignore Steve’s threats and harassment for 21 months, and begging him to stop texting me in this harassing manner countless times, I had no choice but to report his abuse to my Democratic leader,” Manoogian said in a court filing.
Marino said he’s a victim of “character assassination.” His attorney, Mike Rataj, said they would challenge the protection order.
“These statements are so out of context, and we’re simply going to move to set it aside,” he said.
The order could conflict with Marino’s ability to vote on the House floor if Manoogian is present. Lawmakers will be in Capitol on Tuesday.
A spokesperson for Republican House Speaker Jason Wentworth has said Marino’s Lansing staff remains on the job at the Capitol. A staff member said the lawmaker has been in his office.
Michigan rep to fellow lawmaker: I hope ‘your car explodes’
MLive
September 21, 2021
LANSING, Mich. (AP) — A Michigan lawmaker told another lawmaker that he hoped her “car explodes on the way in,” according to text messages filed in court to support a request for a personal protection order.
“You’re truly the worst human being I’ve ever met. I mean that with the utmost sincerity. Just a parasite,” Rep. Steve Marino told Rep. Mari Manoogian.
Marino, a Macomb County Republican, and Manoogian, an Oakland County Democrat, had a personal relationship that ended more than a year ago.
Manoogian, 29, obtained a protection order last week from a judge, a few days after Marino, 32, was removed from House committees for alleged abuse. State police are investigating.
There was no indication in the court file when the text messages were written, The Detroit News reported.
Marino said he hoped Manoogian’s “car explodes on the way in” and warned her to “hide on the House floor” in a series of texts in which they also discussed issues being handled by a state House committee.
“After trying to ignore Steve’s threats and harassment for 21 months, and begging him to stop texting me in this harassing manner countless times, I had no choice but to report his abuse to my Democratic leader,” Manoogian said in a court filing.
Marino said he’s a victim of “character assassination.” His attorney, Mike Rataj, said they would challenge the protection order.
“These statements are so out of context, and we’re simply going to move to set it aside,” he said.
The order could conflict with Marino’s ability to vote on the House floor if Manoogian is present. Lawmakers will be in Capitol on Tuesday.
Birmingham Democrat alleges GOP lawmaker sent threatening text messages after relationship ended
Post intimate relationship between lawmakers has become increasingly volatile, Manoogian says
Click On Detroit
September 20, 2021
VIDEO - Michigan rep. alleges fellow lawmaker sent threatening texts
DETROIT – A personal protection order asked for and granted to Michigan Rep. Mari Manoogian (D-Birmingham) contains two text messages from Rep. Steve Marino (R-Harrison Township).
The first appears to show Marino angry that Manoogian won’t help him with a sick dog. He uses obscenities to describe Manoogian and then tells her he’s going to make it his life’s mission to make the young lawmaker miserable. At the same time he also sent her work related information for a committee hearing.
In the second message, he tells Manoogian she should hide on the House floor because he intends to park right next to her and ream the lawmaker. He then goes on to give her more information on an upcoming commute hearing.
Rep. Marino told Rep. Manoogian to 'hide on House floor,' court records show
The Detroit News
September 20, 2021
Republican State Rep. Steve Marino said he would make it his "life mission to destroy" Democratic State Rep. Mari Manoogian, according to text message screenshots in Michigan court records.
Marino, a third-term lawmaker from Harrison Township, also said he hoped Manoogian's "car explodes on the way in" and warned the Birmingham Democrat to "hide on the House floor" in a series of texts in which they also discussed business for the House Commerce and Tourism Committee on which they both served. The 31-year-old GOP legislator has said the relationship, which Manoogian has called "volatile," ended more than a year ago.
The texts were part of a filing Manoogian made last week in an effort to obtain a personal protection order against Marino, whom Michigan State Police officials confirmed they are investigating following allegations.
"You're truly the worst human being I've ever met. I mean that with the utmost sincerity. Just a parasite," wrote Marino, who is serving his last term in the House. It's not clear from the screenshots in the court filing when the texts were written.
In her request for a personal protection order last week, second-term lawmaker Manoogian, 29, alleged Marino started acting threateningly toward her in early 2020, a short time after their four-month relationship ended.
"Face to face and over text, Steve began threatening me and harassing me," Manoogian wrote in a statement attached to her PPO petition. "It has escalated to a point where I fear for my safety and for Steve's own safety."
Marino, who shared a committee assignment with Manoogian, said in a statement last week that the allegations amounted to "character assassination."
"These statements are so out of context and we’re simply going to move to set it aside," Marino's lawyer Mike Rataj said Monday of the allegations contained in the PPO request. "We’ll have a lot more to say once we get into court.”
The PPO includes a stipulation preventing Marino from occupying the same property that Manoogian is on. It's not yet clear how the order will be enforced Tuesday when House lawmakers are expected to return to session. The House Business Office as well as House sergeants and attorneys are still reviewing the matter, said Gideon D'Assandro, a spokesman for House Speaker Jason Wentworth, R-Farwell.
Wentworth removed Marino from his committee assignments last week after hearing of the allegations from Manoogian and House Minority Leader Donna Lasinski, D-Scio Township. But Marino is still allowed to participate on the House floor after being removed from the committees. The House is expected to vote on next year's budget this week.
In her PPO petition, Manoogian said Marino "emotionally and verbally abused me relentlessly."
"After trying to ignore Steve's threats and harassment for 21 months, and begging him to stop texting me in this harassing manner countless times, I had no choice but to report his abuse to my Democratic Leader," Manoogian wrote.
She expressed concerns that Marino's "mental health will continue to deteriorate" to the point that he would endanger both Manoogian and himself. Marino also knows where her family lives, Manoogian said.
"The way that Steve switches his hateful anger on and off towards me is unhealthy, it terrifies me, and it makes me believe he is suffering from a legitimate mental break of some type," she said.
Attached to the petition are screenshots of text messages between Manoogian and Marino in which he threatens to "destroy" her and expresses hope that her car explodes, before attaching a presentation on "AV/battery bs." The texts appear to have been preceded by a conversation about a pet.
In a separate screenshot that ended with arrangements for committee testimony, Marino told her to "hide on the House Floor."
"...because I'm going to park right next to your desk and ream you a new ---hole each session day until I leave that place," he wrote, according to the screenshot.
Manoogian responded, "I just woke up. What."
Marino wrote back: "There should be a Citizen's Guide to State Government on your desk...courtesy of my office."
Michigan Rep. Steve Marino to challenge PPO against him after domestic abuse allegation
Personal protections order granted Friday night
Click On Detroit
September 18, 2021
LANSING, Mich. – Michigan Rep. Steve Marino will challenge a personal protections order taken out against him by Rep. Mari Manoogian.
Read: Michigan lawmaker granted PPO against Rep. Steve Marino after domestic abuse allegation
Manoogian alleged Marino is guilty of domestic abuse. The two were involved in a relationship and sources said the accusations involve threats, not physical violence.
The personal protections order was granted to Manoogian Friday night by the Ingham County Circuit Court.
Marino’s attorney said he expects to receive it Monday and will move to set it aside.
Manoogian released the following statement Saturday night:
“Given the outpouring of support from my colleagues on both sides of the aisle, friends, family members, and my constituents, I feel compelled to share some details about the happenings over the last week in connection with Steve Marino. On Tuesday, September 14, 2021, I made a police report with the Michigan State Police, and yesterday, I took the drastic action to successfully file a Personal Protection Order (PPO) against this individual.
I want to express my gratitude towards the large community of individuals who have, without hesitation, supported my family and me during this difficult time. I have placed my faith in the judicial system. I’m confident that Steve will be held accountable for his actions and that the truth will prevail.”
Rep. Mari Manoogian
Lawyer: Rep. Manoogian secures personal protection order against Rep. Marino
Detroit Free Press
Sept 17, 2021
Rep. Mari Manoogian has secured a personal protection order against Rep. Steve Marino, with whom she previously had a relationship and now is accusing of domestic abuse, her lawyer said Friday.
That order, issued Friday by 30th Circuit Judge Lisa McCormick of Lansing, is in effect now and in theory could prevent Marino from being on the floor of the House at the same time as Manoogian.
"It's going to be an issue that needs to be worked out with the speaker and law enforcement," Kelly McClintock, a lawyer representing Manoogian, said in a Friday interview.
"This is probably a novel circumstance."
McClintock said the order prevents Marino from being on any property occupied by Manoogian. If he is on the same property, and doesn't leave, he's in violation of the order and could face jail time, she said.
She clarified that her client did not request the judge include the portion preventing Marino from being in the same place as her, but the judge has the authority to issue orders that go beyond the scope of the request.
Earlier this week, Manoogian, D-Birmingham, accused Marino, R-Harrison Township, of domestic abuse after what she described as a volatile relationship. Marino confirmed the pair previously dated but denied any misconduct.
Michigan State Police confirmed they are investigating the situation, and House Speaker Jason Wentworth, R-Farwell, pulled Marino from all committees earlier this week.
"The safety of those who serve at the Capitol is a priority for Speaker Wentworth. He will review the order and confer with legal counsel and the nonpartisan human resources staff on any changes that need to be made," said Gideon D'Assandro, a Wentworth spokesman.
As of Friday, there were no publicly announced rules barring Marino from the House floor or his legislative office, located in a large building where Manoogian also has an office.
Mike Rataj, a lawyer representing Marino, said Friday he was unaware of the order until contacted by the Free Press.
"This is news to me. Obviously, it seems to be some kind of political maneuver," Rataj said.
"I can't imagine what grounds they used to get the PPO. But I can assure you we'll be filing a motion to have it set aside."
On Friday, Manoogian tweeted a statement from her attorney announcing the order.
"Today, Rep. Manoogian petitioned for and received a personal protection order to help ensure her safety and well-being. This PPO was granted based on the court determining that irreparable harm was likely to occur from the delay required to effect notice," McClintock said in the statement.
"Grewal Law is working with others to help ensure the representative’s safety as she focuses on her number one priority — working on behalf of her constituents at the State Capitol."
McClintock said she could not release a copy of the order without the consent of her client. She said McCormick, who was appointed to her role by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer in 2020, indicated the order would remain in effect for one year.
Neither Manoogian nor Marino has publicly released any specific details about the alleged conduct.
“None of us are immune to a volatile relationship, regardless of our career. It can happen right here in our legislature, where abuse of power and threats to ruin a colleague’s reputation, as well as threats of public shaming, can be used to intimidate fellow members of the legislature," Manoogian said in a statement earlier this week.
"I am asking for privacy as I take steps to ensure my safety while I continue to represent my district and do the work of the people.”
Marino also previously accused Manoogian of playing politics.
"I will be clear: the insinuations made are nothing more than politically motivated character assassination that I am confident will conclude as a waste of the public's time. I look forward to fulfilling my duties and maintaining the trust I've worked so hard to build during my seven years in public office," Marino said in the statement.
Representatives are scheduled to return to the House floor at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday.
Michigan lawmaker calls abuse allegations 'politically-motivated character assassination'
ABC News - Detroit
September 16, 2021
(WXYZ) — Republican State Rep. Steve Marino released a statement after he was accused of threatening and abusing another lawmaker.
Democratic Rep. Mari Manoogian issued a statement a day after Republican Rep. Steve Marino was removed from two panels for unknown reasons.
Marino released the following statement in response:
"I had a relationship that ended well over a year ago with with Representative Amara Manoogian. She served on a committee that I chaired. I regret the fact that I went along with her request to not disclose the prior relationship to the Speaker. However, I will be clear: the insinuations made are nothing more than politically motivated character assassination that I am confident will conclude as a waste of the public's time. I look forward to fulfilling my duties and maintaining the trust I've worked so hard to build during my seven years in public office."
House Speaker Jason Wentworth disciplined Marino.
He says state police are investigating.
Michigan Rep. Steve Marino calls domestic abuse claims 'politically motivated character assassination'
FOX 2 Detroit
September 16, 2021
LANSING, Mich. (FOX 2) - Michigan Rep. Steve Marino (R-Harrison Township) released a statement Thursday after another lawmaker accused him of domestic abuse.
Rep. Mari Manoogian (D-Birmingham) made the allegations in a statement. Marino was removed from his committee assignments Wednesday.
"I had a relationship that ended well over a year ago with Representative Amara Manoogian. She served on a committee that I chaired. I regret the fact that I went along with her request to not disclose the prior relationship to the Speaker," Marino's statement read. "However, I will be clear: the insinuations made are nothing more than politically motivated character assassination that I am confident will conclude as a waste of the public's time. I look forward to fulfilling my duties and maintaining the trust I've worked so hard to build during my seven years in public office."
A spokeswoman for Michigan State Police said they are looking into a complaint filed against Marino which they received late Tuesday, but would not provide further details.
Macomb Co. Rep. Marino confirms past relationship with Rep. Manoogian, denies abuse
Detroit Free Press
September 16, 2021
A Macomb County Republican lawmaker stripped of his committee assignments this week is denying allegations of domestic abuse leveled by a former romantic partner who is also a fellow legislator.
Rep. Steve Marino, R-Harrison Township, confirmed in a statement Thursday that he dated Rep. Mari Manoogian, D-Birmingham. But he denied allegations issued publicly by Manoogian on Wednesday.
"I had a relationship that ended well over a year ago with with Representative Amara Manoogian. She served on a committee that I chaired. I regret the fact that I went along with her request to not disclose the prior relationship to the speaker," Marino said in the statement.
"However, I will be clear: the insinuations made are nothing more than politically motivated character assassination that I am confident will conclude as a waste of the public's time. I look forward to fulfilling my duties and maintaining the trust I've worked so hard to build during my seven years in public office."
The Michigan State Police are investigating, a spokeswoman confirmed Wednesday. She declined additional comment.
Marino and Manoogian did not include specific details about the alleged misconduct in their statements. Manoogian's comments broadly described the relationship as volatile.
“The unfortunate reality is that many people in our society have experienced domestic abuse, which often comes from someone we would never expect,” Manoogian said in a statement posted Wednesday to Twitter.
“None of us are immune to a volatile relationship, regardless of our career. It can happen right here in our legislature, where abuse of power and threats to ruin a colleague’s reputation, as well as threats of public shaming, can be used to intimidate fellow members of the legislature. I am asking for privacy as I take steps to ensure my safety while I continue to represent my district and do the work of the people.”
House Minority Floor Leader Donna Lasinski, D-Scio Township, issued a statement in support on Manoogian on Wednesday.
On Thursday, Lasinski told the Free Press she learned of the allegations directly from Manoogian. She declined to say when she had this conversation with Manoogian. Afterward, she said she immediately set up with meeting with House Speaker Jason Wentworth, R-Farwell.
"Speaker Wentworth and I are working together to ensure the safety of Rep. Manoogian, and all members and staff, on and off capital grounds," Lasinski said in a statement on Thursday.
On Wednesday, Wentworth confirmed the allegations prompted his decision to remove Marino from his committee positions.
“I will always prioritize the safety of state legislators and those who are serving their community at the state Capitol. Once I learned of this situation, I took immediate action. Going forward, the House is honoring Rep. Manoogian's request for privacy while others look into the allegations," he said in the statement.
“The House will continue to assist with the Michigan State Police investigation, take every precaution to ensure Rep. Manoogian's safety, and ultimately allow the legal process to play out. We will be able to provide further updates at the appropriate time.”
The House has a specific policy on harassment that outlines how it would investigate allegations involving a lawmaker or staff member. The House Business Office did not immediately respond to questions Thursday about the process and how it applied to alleged conduct by Marino.
State lawmaker accused of domestic abuse; State police launch investigation
Click On Detroit
September 15, 2021
State police have launched an investigation after a lawmaker was accused of domestic abuse.
Republican state rep investigated for domestic abuse claim by fellow lawmaker
FOX 2 News - Detroit
September 15, 2021
Republican State Rep Steve Marino was stripped of his legislative duties Wednesday after Democratic State Rep Mari Manoogian accused him of domestic abuse.
Macomb County lawmaker under investigation for ‘volatile relationship’
Republican accused of domestic abuse by Democratic colleague
Macomb Daily
September 15, 2021
A Macomb County lawmaker was stripped of his committee assignments after a female legislator said they had a “volatile” personal relationship that included domestic abuse and threats.
Rep. Mari Manoogian, a Birmingham Democrat in her second term, issued a statement Wednesday, a day after third-term Republican Rep. Steve Marino of Macomb County’s Harrison Township was removed from two panels, including one he chaired, for unknown reasons.
“The unfortunate reality is that many people in our society have experienced domestic abuse, which often comes from someone we would never expect,” Manoogian, 29, said late Wednesday afternoon in the statement.
“None of us are immune to a volatile relationship, regardless of our career. It can happen right here in our legislature, where abuse of power and threats to ruin a colleague’s reputation, as well as threats of public shaming, can be used to intimidate fellow members of the legislature.”
Manoogian said she is asking for privacy as she takes steps to ensure her safety while she continues to represent her district.
Manoogian did not specify what Marino, 32, allegedly did, nor whether the alleged abuse and threats were physical, verbal or written. The two had served on had served together on the Commerce and Tourism Committee.
The controversial Marino did not respond to phone calls or text messages seeking comment from The Macomb Daily.
Republican House Speaker Jason Wentworth, who disciplined Marino, said state police are investigating.
“I will always prioritize the safety of state legislators and those who are serving their community at the state Capitol. Once I learned of this situation, I took immediate action. Going forward, the House is honoring Rep. Manoogian’s request for privacy while others look into the allegations,” he said.
State police spokeswoman Shanon Banner said the agency received a complaint late Tuesday. She declined further comment because the investigation was “in the very early stages.”
“I can confirm that we received a complaint late yesterday with allegations against Mr. Marino that we are looking into,” Banner said in an email to The Macomb Daily.
House Democratic Leader Donna Lasinski backed Manoogian and said her caucus “will not tolerate any threats of abuse, retribution and public embarrassment that are used to intimidate women.”
Earlier Wednesday, a spokesman for Wentworth confirmed action had been taken against Marino.
“Rep. Marino is no longer the chair of the (House) Commerce (and Tourism) Committee and no longer serves on the Local Government (and Municipal Finance) committee,” Gideon D’Assandro, a spokesman for Wentworth, wrote in an email.
To fill the vacancy, Rep. Pauline Wendzel has been appointed to serve as the committee chair.
D’Assandro would not comment further about the change or if other actions are under consideration. But he did say Marino’s Lansing staff remains on the job at the Capitol. A staff member said the 31-year-old lawmaker was in his office and attending committee hearings Tuesday.
Removal of committee assignments is considered among the most serious punishments a lawmaker receives from legislative leaders.
For example, when former state senator Pete Lucido was removed of his committee seats and a chairmanship, Senate leaders said it was in response to allegations of groping or sexually harassing three women, including another senator. Lucido, a Shelby Township Republican, is now the Macomb County prosecutor.
In late 2020, Marino told The Macomb Daily that lingering health issues were the reason why he had the worst voting record of the year. He missed 46% of the House votes in 2020 — the most of any member of the House or Senate.
A former lobbyist and Macomb County commissioner, Marino was first elected to the state house in 2016.
He came under criticism for his involvement in secret recordings, which captured him saying a powerful state senator forced Marino to pay a bar bill at his daughter’s wedding.
Marino’s name came up repeatedly in court testimony during a 2019 bribery case that targeted another House member. He was able to avoid being served with an FBI subpoena after numerous attempts.
In that case, Marino was being sought by officials to answer questions about a fundraiser held in 2016 that was hosted by Dr. Jennifer Franklin, who had been indicted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office as part of in investigation of a drug ring dealing addictive pain killers such as Oxycodone.
He cancelled the event after receiving inquires from the media and said that he barely knew Franklin, who later pleaded guilty for her role in helping sell more than $2 million worth of pills.
In another controversy, he was caught on tape saying he supported outsourcing of jobs to China and avoiding to pay property taxes on his Harrison Township lakefront home. He insisted he made the story up.
State police investigating Marino after lawmaker alleges 'volatile relationship'
The Detroit News
September 15, 2021
Lansing — The Michigan State Police is investigating a complaint involving Republican Rep. Steve Marino, an agency spokeswoman said Wednesday, as a Democratic colleague suggested he levied threats against her.
Rep. Mari Manoogian, a Democrat from Birmingham, indicated in a Wednesday statement that she had a "volatile relationship" with Marino of Harrison Township in neighboring Macomb County and "threats" led to his removal as chairman of the House Commerce and Tourism Committee.
"I can confirm that we received a complaint late yesterday that we are looking into," said Shanon Banner, a spokeswoman for MSP. "Because it is ongoing and in the very early stages, we will not be providing further comment."
The statement by Manoogian of Oakland County came a day after House Speaker Jason Wentworth, R-Farwell, removed Marino from his committee assignments. House leadership initially remained quiet about the reason for the unusual disciplinary action. The situation changed Wednesday afternoon when Manoogian issued a press release, and Wentworth said a Michigan State Police investigation is occurring.
"The unfortunate reality is that many people in our society have experienced domestic abuse, which often comes from someone we would never expect," Manoogian said. "None of us are immune to a volatile relationship, regardless of our career.
"It can happen right here in our Legislature, where abuse of power and threats to ruin a colleague's reputation, as well as threats of public shaming, can be used to intimidate fellow members of the Legislature."
Marino has not responded to requests for comment about the situation. Manoogian had served on the Commerce and Tourism Committee with Marino, a 31-year-old lawmaker in his third and final term.
Manoogian, a 29-year-old legislator who is in her second term, asked for privacy as she takes "steps to ensure my safety" and continues to represent her district.
Wentworth issued his own statement Wednesday, saying he will always "prioritize the safety of state legislators and those who are serving their community at the state Capitol."
"The House will continue to assist with the Michigan State Police investigation, take every precaution to ensure Rep. Manoogian's safety and ultimately allow the legal process to play out," he said. "We will be able to provide further updates at the appropriate time.”
Marino is no longer the chairman for the House Commerce and Tourism Committee nor is he serving on the Local Government and Municipal Finance Committee. Rep. Pauline Wendzel, R-Watervliet, replaced Marino as chairwoman of the Commerce and Tourism Committee.
House Minority Leader Donna Lasinski, D-Scio Township, said she stands by Manoogian and her request for privacy.
"Our caucus is acutely aware of the challenges that come with being a female elected official and will not tolerate any threats of abuse, retribution and public embarrassment that are used to intimidate women," Lasinski said.
Marino is a former Macomb County commissioner and was elected to the state House in 2016.
Other recent lawmakers who lost committee assignments include Rep. Cynthia Johnson, D-Detroit, and Rep. Gary Eisen, R-St. Clair Township, who both were removed for controversial comments they made after the 2020 election.
Former Republican Rep. Larry Inman of Williamsburg was removed from his assignments after he was charged with extortion and bribery. In December 2019, a federal jury in Grand Rapids found Inman not guilty of lying to the Federal Bureau of Investigation and couldn't reach unanimous verdicts on charges of attempted extortion and solicitation of a bribe.
Michigan lawmaker accuses GOP colleague of domestic abuse; state police investigating
Detroit Free Press
September 15, 2021
A Birmingham Democratic lawmaker says a Macomb County Republican colleague committed domestic abuse.
The allegations from state Rep. Mari Manoogian, D-Birmingham, against state Rep. Steve Marino, R-Harrison Township, and conduct by Marino are the subject of a Michigan State Police investigation. They prompted House Speaker Jason Wentworth, R-Farwell, to strip Marino of his legislative duties, according to Wentworth's office.
"I will always prioritize the safety of state legislators and those who are serving their community at the state Capitol. Once I learned of this situation, I took immediate action. Going forward, the House is honoring Rep. Manoogian's request for privacy while others look into the allegations," Wentworth said in a statement late Wednesday.
“The House will continue to assist with the Michigan State Police investigation, take every precaution to ensure Rep. Manoogian's safety, and ultimately allow the legal process to play out. We will be able to provide further updates at the appropriate time.”
In a statement issued Wednesday afternoon on Twitter, Manoogian said she is one of many in Michigan to experience domestic abuse and she's asking for privacy.
"The unfortunate reality is that many people in our society have experienced domestic abuse, which often comes from someone we would never expect," Manoogian said.
"None of us are immune to a volatile relationship regardless of our career. It can happen right here in our legislature where abuse of power and threats to ruin a colleague's reputation, as well as threats of public shaming, can be used to intimidate fellow members of the legislature. I'm asking for privacy as I take steps to ensure my safety while I continue to represent my district and do the work of the people."
None of the statements provided additional details about the exact nature of the allegations or any relationship involving Marino and Manoogian.
Michigan State Police spokeswoman Shanon Banner confirmed the agency received a complaint Tuesday "that we are looking into."
"Because it is ongoing and in the very early stages, we will not be providing further comment," Banner said.
Marino did not return a voicemail left Wednesday morning.
House Democratic Leader Donna Lasinski, D-Scio Township, issued a statement supporting Manoogian.
"I will always put the safety of our members first. I stand by Rep. Manoogian and her request for privacy. Our caucus is acutely aware of the challenges that come with being a female elected official, and will not tolerate any threats of abuse, retribution and public embarrassment that are used to intimidate women," Lasinski said.
Earlier Wednesday, Wentworth's office confirmed the speaker had stripped Marino of all of his legislative committee duties, including removing him from a coveted committee chairmanship.
"Rep. Marino is no longer the chair of the Commerce Committee and no longer serves on the Local Government committee. Rep. Pauline Wendzel has been appointed to serve as the committee chair," Gideon D'Assandro, a Wentworth spokesman, said in a statement.
"The speaker trusts Rep. Wendzel to carefully review important legislation related to Michigan’s economy and make strong recommendations to the rest of the House of Representatives."
Until Tuesday, Marino and Manoogian were both on the commerce committee. The committee held a joint meeting Wednesday with a Senate committee — Wendzel served as chair, and Manoogian was not in attendance.
Wendzel is a Bainbridge Township Republican who has represented her west Michigan district since 2018.
In a very brief letter sent Tuesday, Wentworth informed Marino he would no longer serve on any committee.
Manoogian, 29, is the youngest woman serving in the Legislature and is generally considered a rising star in Michigan Democratic politics. She was one of 17 Democrats nationwide featured at the 2020 Democratic National Convention.
Before winning her first election in 2018, Manoogian worked for former U.S. Rep. John Dingell, D-Dearborn, the Council on Foreign Relations, former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Samantha Power and the U.S. Department of State.
Previously a lobbyist and Macomb County commissioner, the 32-year-old Marino was first elected to the statehouse in 2016. He garnered substantial criticism during his first campaign after secret recordings captured him saying a powerful state senator forced Marino to pay a bar bill at his daughter's wedding.
In the recording, Marino emphasized it wasn't just any wedding, but a "Jewish wedding." Marino retracted the comments and apologized for them, saying he mischaracterized what happened and "was just trying to illustrate some of the silliness" of Lansing.
This is at least the third time Wentworth has had a role in removing a lawmaker from committees.
In late 2020, after he was chosen as the new speaker but before formally taking the role, Wentworth worked with then-Speaker Lee Chatfield, R-Levering, on removing one Republican and one Democrat from their committees.
Rep. Cynthia Johnson, D-Detroit, was pulled in December after she made comments in a Facebook video that legislative leaders and others perceived as threatening. She made the statements after receiving death threats following verbal barbs she traded with President Donald Trump's attorney Rudy Giuliani during a raucous legislative hearing.
Days later, Rep Gary Eisen, R-St. Clair Township, was also stripped of his committee assignments. In a radio interview at the time, Eisen suggested he was part of a group that planned to disrupt the Electoral College voting process at the statehouse and that he could not rule out violence.
Both Johnson and Eisen were reassigned to committees at the start of the new legislative session in January.
Michigan lawmaker under investigation, accused of threatening Capitol colleague
MLive
Sep. 15, 2021
Michigan state Rep. Steve Marino, R-Harrison Township, was stripped of his committee assignments and is under investigation after being accused of making threats toward fellow lawmaker Mari Manoogian, D-Birmingham, House Speaker Jason Wentworth confirmed Wednesday.
“None of us are immune to a volatile relationship, regardless of our career,” Manoogian said in a statement.
“The unfortunate reality is that many people in our society have experienced domestic abuse, which often comes from someone we would never expect,” her statement read. “It can happen right here in our legislature, where abuse of power and threats to ruin a colleague’s reputation, as well as threats of public shaming, can be used to intimidate fellow members of the legislature.
The specific nature of the threats was not made public, and Manoogian asked for privacy “as I take steps to ensure my safety while I continue to represent my district and do the work of the people.”
Wentworth, R-Farwell, said he took immediate action to remove Marino from committee assignments upon learning of the situation and said the House will work with the Michigan State Police to investigate the allegations.
“I will always prioritize the safety of state legislators and those who are serving their community at the state Capitol,” Wentworth said. “The House will continue to assist with the Michigan State Police investigation, take every precaution to ensure Rep. Manoogian’s safety, and ultimately allow the legal process to play out.”
Marino was abruptly removed as chair of the House Commerce and Tourism Committee and also lost his position on the Local Government and Municipal Finance Committee this week. Manoogian also serves on the Commerce and Tourism Committee.
Rep. Pauline Wendzel, R-Watervliet, has replaced Marino as the committee’s chair.
Marino, a third-term lawmaker who represents Harrison Township and portions of Clinton and Macomb townships, has not responded to requests for comment about the situation.
House Democratic Leader Donna Lasinski, D-Scio Township, expressed support for Manoogian and urged people to respect her request for privacy.
“Our caucus is acutely aware of the challenges that come with being a female elected official and will not tolerate any threats of abuse, retribution and public embarrassment that are used to intimidate women,” she said in a statement.
State police investigating Rep. Steve Marino for domestic abuse claim made by fellow lawmaker
FOX 2 News - Detroit
FOX 2 - Republican State Rep Steve Marino was stripped of his legislative duties Wednesday after Democratic State Rep Mari Manoogian accused him of domestic abuse.
"None of us are immune to a volatile relationship," she said in a statement. "It can happen right here in our legislature where abuse of power and threats to ruin a colleague’s reputation, as well as threats of public shaming, can be used to intimidate fellow members of the legislature."
State House Speaker Jason Wentworth (R-Clare) removed Marino from his committee assignments including his chairmanship of the commerce committee.
"I also know that Speaker Wentworth is a very careful and respected leader who wouldn’t take the actions that he took without reason," said Jamie Roe.
Roe is a GOP political consultant.
"I would hope that we find that there’s a misunderstanding, but it sure looks like that there’s a problem here that needs to be addressed," Roe said.
A spokeswoman for Michigan State Police said they are looking into a complaint filed against Marino which they received late Tuesday, but would not provide further details.
Marino has served in the State House since 2016.
FOX 2 stopped by his home in Harrison Township and called him for comment, but received no response.
Some of his constituents were eager to weigh in.
"He needs to be investigated to find out if he really did it or not," said Holly Beecher, a resident of Harrison Township.
"I don't believe anyone should get away with domestic violence, ever," said Lisa Highlund, another resident. "I don’t think anybody should be thrown in jail for something they didn’t do, but suspended from something like that kind of a job when you’re holding up the law, of course."
Wentworth released a statement saying:
"I will always prioritize the safety of state legislators and those who are serving their community at the State Capitol. Once I learned of this situation, I took immediate action. Going forward, the House is honoring Rep. Manoogian’s request for privacy while others look into the allegations."
State Rep. Donna Lasinski (D-Scio Township), the Democratic House Leader, said in a statement:
"I stand by Rep. Manoogian and her request for privacy. Our caucus is acutely aware of the challenges that come with being a female elected official and will not tolerate any threats of abuse, retribution, and public embarrassment that are used to intimidate women."
State Rep. Steve Marino accused of domestic abuse from fellow lawmaker
FOX 2 News - Detroit
September 15, 2021
FOX 2 - State Representative Steve Marino (R-Harrison Township) has been removed from his committee assignments after a fellow lawmaker accused him of domestic abuse.
State Rep. Mari Manoogian (D-Birmingham) accused Marino in a statement, regarding his removal. Michigan State Police are now investigating.
"The unfortunate reality is that many people in our society have experienced domestic abuse, which often comes from someone we would never expect," Manoogian wrote in a statement. "None of us are immune to a volatile relationship, regardless of our career.
"It can happen right here in our legislature, where abuse of power and threats to ruin a colleague's reputation, as well as threats of public shaming, can be used to intimidate fellow members of the legislature. I am asking for privacy as I take steps to ensure my safety while I continue to represent my district and do the work of the people."
House Minority Leader Donna Lasinski, D-Scio Township, said she stands by Manoogian and her request for privacy.
"Our caucus is acutely aware of the challenges that come with being a female elected official and will not tolerate any threats of abuse, retribution and public embarrassment that are used to intimidate women," she said in a statement.
Marino was on the House Commerce and Tourism Committee and the Local Government and Municipal Finance Committee.
Michigan lawmaker mysteriously stripped of committee assignments
MLive
Sep. 15, 2021
A Michigan lawmaker was stripped of his legislative committee assignments this week, although no official explanation was given for the move.
Rep. Steve Marino, R-Harrison Township, is no longer chair of the House Commerce and Tourism Committee and has also lost his position on the Local Government and Municipal Finance Committee, said Gideon D’Assandro, spokesperson for House Speaker Jason Wentworth, R-Farwell.
Rep. Pauline Wendzel, R-Watervliet, will replace Marino as chair of the House Commerce and Tourism Committee, D’Assandro said.
“The speaker trusts Rep. Wendzel to carefully review important legislation related to Michigan’s economy and make strong recommendations to the rest of the House of Representatives,” he said.
D’Assandro declined to comment further about the rationale for the change or whether further action is being considered.
Marino, a third-term lawmaker who represents Harrison Township and portions of Clinton and Macomb townships, did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
The decision was abrupt — the House Commerce and Tourism Committee is meeting later Wednesday for testimony on issues currently facing the hospitality industry, and Marino was interviewed about the committee’s work as recently as Monday.
Removing a lawmaker’s committee assignments is uncommon and is typically considered a penalty from leadership. Late last term, Reps. Gary Eisen, R-St. Clair Township, and Cynthia Johnson, D-Detroit, were removed from committee assignments for controversial statements made during the election cycle, although both were given committee assignments again at the start of the current term.
Other recent examples include former Sen. Peter Lucido, who lost one of his two committee chair positions after a Senate investigation found sexual harassment allegations against him were credible, and former Rep. Larry Inman, who was stripped of his committee assignments and office after being accused of attempted extortion and bribery.
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