ALBANY -- Contrary to previous public statements, a report today says former Gov. Eliot Spitzer directed and pushed his aides to compile travel data damaging to Senate Republican leader Joseph Bruno.

The New York Times, citing unnamed sources, reports that Spitzer ordered his former communications director, Darren Dopp, and another aide to release travel data from state police that showed Bruno used state aircraft on days he attended Republican fundraisers in New York City.

Spitzer had apologized to Bruno for his aides' conduct, saying they were overzealous. He suspended Dopp and transferred another aide. Dopp has since left the governor's office.

Spitzer resigned March 12 after being linked to a prostitution ring.