RCMP take over missing funds probe from municipality

Amy Woolvett

THE COAST GUARD

NovaNewsNow.com

The Shelburne RCMP is investigating a theft of money from the Municipality of Shelburne.

An audit revealed monies in the area of $16,000 went missing in 2005.

According to a release statement by the municipality, the irregularities were confined to one former staff member of that year.

Once the money was confirmed missing, the municipality sent in a claim to their insurance company but it was denied.

Council voted last Monday to seek the assistance of the police and on May 30 the investigation began.

“Because of the complexity of it we have decided the best interest for the municipal unit is to go to the RCMP and let them investigate it,” said CAO for the municipality, Reg Ridgley.

He explained it has taken since 2005 to follow the proper due diligence in an investigation of this nature.

“If you’re going to make an accusation on a former employee,” said Ridgley, “you’d better have all your ducks aligned.”

It is unknown at this time whether the insurance company will cover the missing expenses once the investigation from the RCMP is complete.

The municipal council and staff have agreed to offer their full cooperation and will turn over all relevant information to the police investigating the internal crime.

Sgt. Barry MacLellan explains that until the investigation is complete they cannot say what charges will be laid or if there will be a charge.

“Investigations like this they don’t happen over night,” said Sgt. MacLellan, “it could take a few months at least.”