Mr. Townsend said she was never made aware of any allegations of improper behavior.

He resigned from that post amid allegations of inappropriate behavior toward a female subordinate.

There have been allegations of racism and other abusive behavior by Tea Party protesters.

It took an investigative look at the allegations of inappropriate sexual behavior by Long with young men in his care.

In practice, however, under this arrangement the cards seem to be stacked against a client who brings an allegation of unethical behavior against an attorney.

"We are pleased that the commission has confirmed our view that the allegations of illegal behavior were unfounded," the company said in a statement.

By contrast, there were allegations of improper behavior among the highest aides in the Dinkins administration.

If the allegations of low and possibly illegal behavior prove to be unsupported by solid evidence, comparisons with Watergate will quickly dissipate.

The Chicago Tribune called it another allegation of "boorish and immoral sexual behavior."

Rumors of sexual misconduct, followed by other allegations of criminal behavior.