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CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP) -- The state Legislative Audit Council is investigating the South Carolina Department of Disabilities and Special Needs amid allegations mentally and physically disabled clients have been abused.

The Post and Courier of Charleston reports the council approved the investigation last week. Last spring, state lawmakers submitted a list of 20 questions asking about possible abuse.

Audit Council Director Perry Simpson says his staff will contact the lawmakers who raised the questions. The audit could take nine months.

Department of Disabilities and Special Needs spokeswoman Lois Park Mole says the audit is a follow-up to one done a few years ago. She said the audit doesn't say there is abuse but that the council is simply reviewing the validity of accusations that have been made.

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