Feds Find Proof Of Clinton Pranks

Congressional investigators found examples of vandalism, theft and pranks by Clinton administration employees as they prepared to turn over control of the White House in January 2001.

However, the General Accounting Office said because the Bush administration failed to keep records on many alleged misdeeds, it was unable to corroborate some of the claims.

In a report obtained by The Associated Press Tuesday, GAO investigators said they determined that some office products were stolen, although no specific dollar figure was included. GAO also found some outgoing Clinton workers glued shut desk drawers and left prank voice mail messages. Several keyboards were missing their "W" keys.

"Any intentional damage at the White House complex, which is a national treasure, is both inappropriate and a serious matter," concludes the 220-page report by the investigative arm of Congress. "The theft of or willful damage to government property would constitute a criminal act in violation of federal law."

The GAO also noted allegations of vandalism surfaced when the Clinton administration took over the White House in 1993, replacing President Bush's father. Incoming Clinton staffers observed missing signs and doorknobs, excessive trash and words and initials carved into desks, the report said.

Former Clinton administration employees have acknowledged some pranks, such as removing the "W" keys, but say Republican claims of widespread vandalism and theft were overblown.

According to the Executive Office of the President and the General Services Administration, at least $9,324 was spent for repair and replacement of items and cleanup. That included $4,850 for 62 keyboards, $2,040 for 26 cellular telephones, $1,150 for professional cleaning, $729 for two cameras, $221 for 15 television remote controls and $150 for repairing the arms of two chairs and the leg of a sofa.

"The Clinton administration treated the White House worse than college freshmen checking out of their dorm rooms," said Rep. Bob Barr, R-Ga., who requested the investigation. "They showed nothing less than a complete lack of respect for one of America's most sacred public monuments, and in doing so, they disgraced not just themselves, but institution and the office of the presidency as well."

The GAO suggested a check-out policy be established for outgoing administrations that would include listing government materials and their condition.