mayor kruzan's statement on embezzlement
DESCRIPTION
Bloomington Mayor Mark Kruzan says he plans to assist the prosecution of a case alleging hundreds of thousands of dollars in embezzlement in any way he can.TRANSCRIPT
Our great appreciation goes out to the U.S. Attorney's Office and to the FBI for their diligence and for immediately responding to our request for a thorough, independent investigation.
It’s important to remember that we’re dealing with allegations that must still be proven.
It is extremely difficult not to speak in great detail, but the importance of the outcome of this case requires that the investigation not be interfered with in any way. Here’s what I can say at this point.
On Wednesday, February 19, it was first brought to our attention that there might be discrepancies involving city funds. We acted immediately and aggressively to address the problem and continue to do so. • Within 10 minutes of learning of the problem, I contacted the Bloomington Police Department, and a BPD investigation was launched. • An internal administrative review began immediately. • Upon the results of further investigation, I asked BPD to initiate contact with the U.S. Attorney's Office and the FBI and request their involvement. It was important to me to eliminate any possible doubt that an independent investigation was being undertaken. • After confirming apparent problems existed, we contacted the State Board of Accounts to alert them to the situation.
• We've also requested that this year's annual State Board of Accounts audit focus on the Department of Public Works as an additional layer of review.
• Additionally, we've retained outside counsel to conduct an internal review of all city accounts, policies, and procedures.
As mayor, the results of actions of City employees are ultimately my responsibility. I want to ensure that all investigations and reviews are exhaustive. Our intent is: • to assist in prosecuting this case to the fullest extent possible, • to recoup any monies that may have been misused or stolen, and • to enact standards and processes that exceed state laws and requirements.
This was a longtime, trusted employee who, it appears, shouldn't have been. The hundreds of honest, hardworking public employees should not be tarnished by the actions of one.
This sad situation can only be made worse by inadvertently interfering with an ongoing investigation. For that reason, we cannot comment further until the investigation allows.