TALLAHATCHIE COUNTY – Two Tallahatchie County Road Department employees have been arrested on allegations they used county equipment, materials and labor for personal benefit, according to State Auditor Shad White.
White said special agents with the Mississippi Office of the State Auditor arrested Willie Garner and Willie Williams.
According to the auditor’s office, Garner and Williams are accused of defrauding Tallahatchie County by using county dump trucks and labor to deliver dirt to Garner’s home.
“The Auditor’s office has zero-tolerance for theft of taxpayer funds and we will continue to work closely with prosecutors to hold criminals accountable,” White said in a statement.
If convicted, both men could face up to $10,000 in fines and as many as 15 years in prison, according to the auditor’s office.
The State Auditor’s Office said all people arrested are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
Suspected fraud can be reported to the auditor’s office through its website or by calling 1-800-321-1275 during normal business hours.
