Investigators probe alleged theft of funds
HUNTSVILLE — The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation and District Attorney General’s office are reportedly investigating an alleged theft of funds from the Scott County Circuit Court Clerk’s office.
A female employee of the Clerk’s office resigned two weeks ago after the theft was discovered.
According to Circuit Court Clerk Donnie Phillips, the findings were made during a routine audit conducted by the State Comptroller’s Office. Once he was notified by auditors of the irregularities, Phillips said, he began looking into the matter. During that process, the employee allegedly admitted the theft and resigned.
Reportedly, the stolen funds amounted to $4,000, and the money has been repaid to the Clerk’s office in full.
After completing his review of the situation, Phillips contacted the D.A.’s office, which requested a formal investigation by the TBI.
In a statement, Phillips said that he was troubled by the events, and that new procedures in his office have been put in place to avoid a similar situation in the future.
“We have adopted and implemented new, more stringent policies and procedures to ensure the integrity of the financial records of my office,” he said. “While shocked by the allegation, I’m taking the opportunity to improve our services and regain the confidence of the people.”
Phillips said he wants to “thank the people of Scott County for giving me the opportunity to serve them.”
The employee’s name has not been released, as she has not been formally charged with wrongdoing.