Utah transit agency cooperating with DOJ corruption probe

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SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — Federal prosecutors have agreed not to file charges against Utah's public transit agency in exchange for cooperation with a Department of Justice investigation of corruption and misuse of public funds.

U.S. Attorney for Utah John Huber and Utah Transit Authority leaders announced the deal Tuesday. It calls for an independent watchdog at UTA and requires the agency to share information about any allegations of criminal activity by UTA board members, employees and contractors.

Huber says UTA, which oversees public buses, light rail and commuter trains in six counties, has made improvements since a scathing 2014 state audit found sweetheart deals and lavish pay for UTA executives.

UTA board chair Robert McKinley says the agreement "lifts a dark cloud" from the agency to start restoring public trust.

Huber would not take questions or offer further details about the ongoing investigation.