Saying that taxpayers deserve better, three Phoenix city council members have asked the state to open an investigation into Valley Metro's spending.
Jim Waring, Michael Nowakowski and Sal DiCiccio sent a letter to state Attorney General Mark Brnovich asking him to look into the spending habits of one-time chief executive officer, Steve Banta.
Banta is accused of spending thousands of dollars on trips and meals while running the transit organization.
"He committed fraud. He lied. He stole money from taxpayers," said DiCiccio.
"If you're caught doing something wrong, you don't just get to say, 'I'll return that stolen television.' That's not the way it works," said Nowakowski.
In a statement, Banta says "he will cooperate fully with both proposed audits and any investigations that arise."
In a previous statement to ABC15, he said "he will resolve any discrepancies regarding my expense reporting."
Nowakowski and DiCiccio said one reason they are asking for the investigation now is because Banta is scheduled to receive a $235,000 annuity payment as part of his employment contract.
Money officials said he would not receive it if a crime is involved.
"That $235,000 is a lot of money. And he should not be getting a Christmas present this time of year," said DiCiccio.
Banta originally resigned after allegations over spending excesses surfaced. He then later tried to rescind his resignation.
After a nearly four-hour meeting on Thursday, Valley Metro's board voted to accept his original resignation.