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Town officials in Prentiss say they took immediate action after discovering financial irregularities, notifying authorities and cooperating with investigators.
Mayor Tony Waits said the town has also implemented additional financial controls to help prevent similar misconduct in the future.
“The Town has implemented additional financial controls designed to prevent similar misconduct from occurring in the future. Since becoming aware of these concerns, the Town has worked to strengthen financial oversight, improve internal controls, and ensure appropriate safeguards are in place regarding the handling of public funds,” Waits said in a statement. “Town services and operations continue without interruption. The Mayor and Board of Aldermen remain focused on serving the citizens of Prentiss and ensuring accountability in the management of public resources.”
According to a news release, former city clerk Dana Jones is accused of embezzling $469,031 in public funds during her time with the town. Investigators allege Jones added unauthorized paychecks and overtime payments to her salary, used the money to make credit card payments, and drafted checks to herself before depositing them into her personal bank account.
If convicted, Jones could face up to $175,000 in fines and a maximum of 205 years in prison.
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