Citing a lack of any “specific credible evidence of actual violations” within its purview, the House Ethics Committee last week announced it has dropped its probe of alleged legislative influence pedaling related to Countrywide Financial’s “VIP Program.” In a statement dropped on Dec. 27, the committee said that although there was some evidence of mortgage loans made to House members and staffers through Countrywide CEO Angelo Mozilo's “Friends of Angelo” program, the allegations are either too dated or involve individuals no longer serving in the House.