Bachus says he's cleared of ethics charges

WASHINGTON, April 30 (UPI) -- U.S. Rep. Spencer Bachus, R-Ala., said Monday the Office of Congressional Ethics has unanimously dismissed ethics claims against him.

The House Financial Services Committee chairman had been under a cloud of accusations he used his post to obtain private information to make profitable financial trades.

Bachus said in a statement he was relieved the "long, painful and frustrating experience" was over, The Hill reported. He called the allegations against him part of a "destructive and disruptive, media generated assault."

"While their review and report should never have been necessary, I am pleased that they have helped clear my name," he said.