New York Governor David Paterson is coming under fire for reportedly receiving free World Series tickets, which is a violation of state rules. The violation has caused an ethics panel to look into the accusation even though Paterson says he "planned to pay for the tickets all along."

The inquiry was started following news reports that Paterson's senior adviser had requested free tickets from the Yankees to the opening game of the World Series last week. Paterson attended with his son, two aides and a friend. Those tickets, good for seats a few rows behind home plate, were valued at $425 each.

State officials are banned from accepting gifts from any person or entity that does business with the state.

The investigation is a fresh problem for Paterson who took the office last year from Eliot Spitzer. Spitzer stepped down following a prostitution scandal.

Paterson is seeking re-election in 2010 despite reports that President Obama has asked him not to.