A Colorado-based audit firm and one of its engagement partners were spared financial penalties in settling with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) over allegations of improper professional conduct during the audits of two private funds.

Spicer Jeffries agreed to be censured and retain an independent consultant to review certain of its policies and procedures as part of its settlement with the SEC announced Wednesday. Engagement partner Sean Tafaro received a one-year suspension from appearing and practicing before the agency as an accountant.