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Lawrence Mayor Lantigua Denies Corruption: 'I Have Nothing To Hide'

 LAWRENCE (CBS) - Lawrence Mayor William Lantigua is coming under more scrutiny, this time, as federal and state officials reportedly look into corruption allegations against him.

According to the Boston Globe, the FBI and Essex District Attorney's Office are reportedly looking into whether the mayor plays favorites when it comes to which tow truck companies get city business.

WBZ-TV's Alana Gomez reports

"If you check background, the same companies that were here when I was elected are the same companies that are here today," Lantigua told WBZ-TV's Alana Gomez. "I do not have any deals with them today."

Other issues revolve around whether Lantigua has any financial ties with the nightclubs he frequents – especially since his wife is on the board that approves liquor licenses. 

Lantigua said his wife has been on the commission for years and nothing has changed.

The FBI is rumored to be relying heavily on Lawrence Police as a source of information.

 The mayor, who spoke Saturday with WBZ NewsRadio 1030's Kim Tunnicliffe  says he doesn't know about any probe, denying any allegations of corruption and saing he has nothing to hide. 

"There is no corruption," said Lantigua.

WBZ NewsRadio 1030's Kim Tunnicliffe reports

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Lantigua has been the center of controversy for much of his term. He faced criticism for trying to hold on to his job as state representative while he was mayor. He's also been in public battles with the fire department and police department over layoffs as a result of budget cuts.

 Lantigua stood by his administration Saturday and said he's proud of what they've accomplished so far. He called the allegations "lies" and said he's willing to cooperate with any investigation.

"At the end of the day I'm not breaking any law and I will be standing tall when everything is said and done," said Lantigua. 

When asked on Saturday by WBZ-TV about the investigation, a spokesperson for the FBI refused to comment.

WBZ-TV's Alana Gomez contributed to this report.

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