Legal troubles swamp ex-lifeguard

Michael Scanlon was known as Sean Scanlon during his lifeguarding days.

WASHINGTON — Here's how the Cape Gazette in Lewes, Del., handled recent news about legal problems affecting public-relations executive Michael Scanlon, former press secretary for the former House Majority Leader Tom DeLay, R-Texas:

"Sean Scanlon, a Rehoboth Beach lifeguard, pleaded guilty to federal charges that he conspired to defraud American Indian tribes." The paper noted that Scanlon is "better known in Washington, D.C., circles as Michael."

"While Scanlon was known as ruthless in Washington," the paper said, "he was also a generous friend to many Rehoboth Beach lifeguards," let folks use his house and took some to Daytona Beach, Fla., for a lifesaving competition "aboard Scanlon's private jet."

Those days are probably over, since he must pay $19 million in restitution.

"Rehoboth Beach officials took Scanlon's plea in stride," the article noted, "saying the case does not reflect negatively on the resort town."

But Rehoboth Beach Mayor Sam Cooper said he doesn't think Scanlon will still be allowed to work as a lifeguard.