Former Gov. Mike Easley released a short statement on Saturday, his first response since the FBI launched an investigation amid allegations Easley accepted perks during his time in office.

Easley issued this statement: "I am comfortable with the federal authorities collecting and reviewing all records relating to my 30 years of public service to the people of North Carolina. I am confident of the outcome and we look forward to moving on with our private lives."

The statement referred additional questions to John Wallace, an attorney who worked with Easley during his campaigns.

Messages left for Wallace on Saturday were not returned.

The FBI issued subpoenas Friday to the state Highway Patrol for information about private travels of Easley and his family.

A series of reports by the News & Observer raised questions about Easley allegedly accepting perks such as free airplane trips that were not reported on his campaign reports.

Easley has not been accused of any crimes.

The grand jury related to the FBI investigation is scheduled to meet next week.

Also this week, two North Carolina State University officials resigned after questions about the hiring of Easley's wife, Mary Easley, to a position at NC State.

Provost Larry Nielsen and Board of Trustees Chairman McQueen Campbell both submitted letters of resignation.