Sheriff: ''Lame duck commissioners defaming my character''
WEXFORD CO. -- The Wexford County Sheriff is finally speaking out; defending himself against allegations that he misused county funds.
This is a story 7&4 News has been following for more than a month. Some Wexford County Commissioners say Sheriff Gary Finstrom used Animal Control Millage money for things like jewelry, parties and hotel bills.
Last week, the sheriff was called in front of commissioners to answer 39 specific questions regarding the use of the funds. Sheriff Finstrom attended the meeting, but told commissioners he was not given enough time to prepare. Another special meeting was held on Wednesday night. The sheriff prepared a written statement proclaiming his innocence.
Wexford County Sheriff, Gary Finstrom says, “This is nothing more than a personal vendetta to attack and discredit me and defame my character…. regarding the expenditures that are in question, at no time has there ever been any attempt to hide bills. All receipts were turned in with a description of the purchase.”
Finance Committee Chairman, Larry Copley, who is one of several commissioners not returning in the New Year, says the findings were turned into the Michigan Attorney General earlier this month to make sure the matter is investigated. He says there is reason to believe the new commissioners won’t investigate.
