Some experts suggest the inquiry is focused on whether certain companies are improperly using the private market to get around public disclosure requirements.
At issue is whether, through these Byzantine programs, private equity executives are improperly using pretax dollars, rather than after-tax dollars, to invest in their own funds.
Now Ringling Brothers contends that animal welfare advocates who are biased against the circus are improperly using their limited police powers under state law to bring criminal charges against Mr. Gebel.
Colt's president and chief executive, Richard F. Gamble, said in an interview that neither the Sporter nor the AR-15 was an assault rifle and that the term was being improperly used.
The letter also suggests the presidential seal is being improperly used on the site.
In addition, the report said fire safety equipment was improperly used, contributing to injuries.
Lisa Marie Shekell, the department's communications director, said there was no evidence that any of the information had been improperly used.
He said he had not known that partnerships with the company were improperly used to hide losses.
Mr. Kidd contends that the law was improperly used to detain him as a suspect in a terrorism case.
