State Board of Accounts report finds former Oolitic town clerk didn't deposit nearly $80,000 in utility payments January 2015 - December 2020

(Bedford) Times-Mail

Wednesday, July 24, 2024 2:41 PM

David Press, Special to The Times-Mail

Former Lawrence County Auditor Jessica Staggs didn't deposit nearly $80,000 in utility payments when she was the city clerk in Oolitic, according to the Indiana State Board of Accounts. Staggs left her job in Oolitic after being elected auditor in 2021, but resigned from the position without explanation in December 2023.

Paula Stewart replaced Staggs in a caucus this past January.

The report, released on June 27, 2024, states a complaint about a water bill made to a member of the town council led to the discovery. Town employees reviewed the customer's utility account and found discrepancies, which officials reported to the Indiana State Board of Accounts (SBOA).

The SBOA's examination the utility's records and accounting between Jan. 1, 2015 and Dec. 31, 2020 identified problems.

SBOA has requested Staggs reimburse the town and state $124,760, which includes nearly $80,000 of missing utility payment and $45,000 in special investigation costs.

The report was filed with the Indiana Attorney General. No charges have been filed.

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