(Originally posted on 8/12/11 – I lost the original post in a server move and, consequently, any comments that went with it.)
Terry Turner, writing for the Gary Post-Tribune (h/t Indiana Law Blog), reports that the Starke County Commissioners have removed the Starke County Treasurer from office.
Board of Commissioners President Dan Bridegroom announced Belork’s removal from office at a special joint emergency session of the commissioners and County Council.
County Attorney Martin Lucas said the commissioners had the authority to seize Treasurer’s Office records, freeze county bank accounts and dismiss Belork and her employees “to safeguard the county.” The commissioners secured a restraining order from Starke Circuit Court for these measures, which also included banning Belork from access to paper and electronic records. It also indicated the county is seeking a default and damages from Belork’s surety bond.
I expect that this kind of thing will be a huge headache and a lot of work for county attorney Lucas, occasional commenter here and friend of the blog. Hang in there, Marty.
The issue is that, apparently, about $800,000 in taxpayer money is missing. The Starke County Board of Commissioners and the Treasurer have been at odds for awhile, according to the report. The Treasurer failed to attend a Commissioners meeting when asked. For her part, the Treasurer did not comment on the article but had complained in the past that Treasurer record discrepancies predate her tenure in office.
This kind of thing can get expensive for a county awfully quickly; particularly if they lose. Clinton County sued Rep. Clements for actions taken in her former capacity as an auditor. They lost, and, as a result, had to pay her attorney fees (pdf) as well. But, if the Starke County Commissioners legitimately think $800,000 has been misappropriated in some fashion, they might not have any other choice.
Leave a Reply