HARRISBURG — The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission is hiring a former FBI official to oversee an internal investigation aimed at cleaning up its image.

Spokesman Carl DeFebo confirmed today that Ray Morrow, the former chief of the Pittsburgh FBI office, will scrutinize alleged theft, fraud and waste within the agency.

Eight people, including former top turnpike employees, vendors and one former legislative leader, were charged last year in connection with alleged bid rigging and influence peddling.

In September, the commission’s former inspector general, Anthony Maniscola, said political influence, patronage and pay-to-play contracting remain pervasive at the agency. He urged that it be placed under the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.