Consultant: Documents in state's possession stolen

HELENA (AP) — A consultant to a conservative group attacking Montana's campaign laws wants documents returned that he says were stolen and are in the possession of the state commissioner of political practices.

American Tradition Partnership consultant Christian LeFer of Livingston says the documents were in his car when it was stolen in Denver two years ago. He planned to file a court request for their return.

Commissioner of Political Practices Program Supervisor Mary Baker said Tuesday her office is no longer releasing the documents to the public.

The documents are featured in a "Frontline" documentary and a story by "Frontline" and ProPublica that suggest the tax-exempt social welfare group illegally coordinated with Republican candidates.

LeFer attorney Quentin Rhoades tells Lee Newspapers State Bureau the documents release reveal proprietary information about his business.