Richardson case to go before Ethics Committee on Thursday

House ethics investigators have been looking into the circumstances surrounding Laura Richardson's house in Sacramento for a while. Now comes word from Politico that the Ethics Committee is scheduled to take up the issue tomorrow.

Much is shrouded in secrecy, but it seems the committee will have to decide whether to dismiss the case or pursue a full-blown investigation, and that an announcement should come out by next Wednesday.

For those late to the story, Richardson defaulted on her home in Sacramento last year. Her lender, Washington Mutual, scheduled a foreclosure auction and sold the house to an investor, but later rescinded the sale when Richardson complained. The investor sued WaMu, and there was an out-of-court settlement for an undisclosed sum.

Richardson kept the house, but has since had some difficulty maintaining it to the standards to which the neighbors are accustomed. Some neighbors have mowed the lawn themselves when they see the grass getting high.

The questions here would be A) whether Richardson received preferential treatment from WaMu, and B) whether the neighbors' acts of kindness constitute illegal gifts under House rules.

Politico got a big "no comment" from Richardson's office.

Also up for consideration is an ethics complaint against Rep. Maxine Waters over her efforts on behalf of OneUnited Bank, which is a whole other kettle of fish.