Probe: No Threat by Top Spitzer Aide

ALBANY — A state investigation has found no proof that Governor Spitzer's top energy adviser threatened the job of a utility regulator appointed by former Governor Pataki. But the report also found bullying and revealed that another of Mr. Spitzer's nominees who — while still a utility company executive — planned to discipline state workers who criticized her and ruled against her company.

The state Inspector General Kristine Hamann's investigation found no conclusive proof that Spitzer energy adviser Steven Mitnick threatened the job of state Public Service Commission member Cheryl Buley or tried to force her to vote for Spitzer policies. Ms. Buley, a Pataki appointee with a term that runs to 2012, had said Ms. Mitnick threatened her job last year to make room for a Spitzer appointment, touching off Ms. Hamann's 10-month investigation.