In his first public comments since facing allegations of water theft, Modesto Irrigation District Director Larry Byrd said during Tuesday’s board meeting that the claims are a conspiracy to hurt him politically. An independent investigation into Byrd’s water use at an almond orchard near La Grange, first reported Sept. 15 in The Modesto Focus, is moving forward, MID General Manager Jimi Netniss said Tuesday. Byrd said, “I completely support (it) and will fully cooperate.”