Justice Institute Director Fired On Governor's Recommendation

INDIANAPOLIS -- A state panel late Friday afternoon fired the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute's director, who was accused of giving a contract to a family friend without the knowledge of the agency's board.

The board voted 10-1 to fire both Heather Bolejack and her top deputy, Katalina Gullans. The action came on the recommendation of Gov. Mitch Daniels, who had appointed Bolejack to the director post in April 2005.

Daniels' recommendation came after the state inspector general found that a family friend of Bolejack received a contract without the board's approval and other funding irregularities.

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Video: Fired Official Denies Wrongdoing

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Daniels placed Bolejack on paid administrative leave on April 25. The governor's attorney said evidence shows at least "unacceptable misconduct and poor judgment."

"I regret the nomination, because it hasn't worked out well. I did nominate this person, and I take responsibility for that," Daniels said Friday. "We did background checks, as we did on all appointees. And I'm really not certain there's anything in the director's past that disqualified her."

The Indiana Criminal Justice Institute oversees state planning for criminal justice, traffic safety and victim services.

Bolejack attended the meeting in which she was fired. As she left, she denied any wrongdoing.

"I can share with everyone: I lived and loved this job, and I would never ... knowingly and intentionally circumvent any process," Bolejack told reporters. "I hope to talk to you all later, when I can truly fight for myself."

The inspector general will forward his report to local and federal prosecutors to see whether criminal action is warranted, 6News' Norman Cox reported.