The Missouri Ethics Commission will investigate a complaint made against Pike County Sheriff Stephen Korte by Presiding Commissioner Dan Miller.

The move is the latest round in a months-long debate over who is allowed as a passenger in sheriff’s department vehicles.

Miller argues that Korte is violating state law and insurance guidelines. Korte argues that the law allows him to set policy on the use of squad cars and that the county’s insurance is not affected.

The Ethics Commission inquiry is expected to last 90 days. The investigation and any hearing on the findings are confidential until the case has concluded.