KIMBALLTON, Iowa (AP) — A former City Clerk in Kimballton has been criminally charged after a state audit that found nearly $90,000 in undeposited collections and improper disbursements. Audubon County Attorney Sarah Jennings says 49-year old Tammy Thompson, of Exira, turned herself in today (Thursday), and was booked on four felony counts: ongoing criminal conduct, fraudulent practices (Money or value of property exceeding $10,000), theft (more than $10,000 in value) and unauthorized use of a credit card (in excess of $1,000, but less than $10,000).

She was released on her own recognizance after appearing before the Magistrate. Her preliminary hearing is set for Sept. 10. Sarah Jennings told KJAN News Thompson was released from custody on her Own Recogizance, as she was not deemed to be a flight risk. Jennings said also, the case was “An egregious violation of the public trust,” and it “Will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”

The charges stem from an investigation initiated by Kimballton Mayor Millette Shores after receiving information from Kimballton’s accounting software that there may be misappropriated funds within the city’s accounts. Mayor Shores reviewed financial statements from their bank and also reviewed electronic documentation of the city’s financial standing. Mayor Shores deemed a misappropriation had occurred and, after receiving guidance from the City Attorney, contacted the State Auditors to assist in the investigation. The Audubon County Sheriff’s Office was also asked to assist in the investigation. Following the conclusion of the State Auditor’s audit, there was a meeting involving the City Attorney, City Council, and the Audubon County Sheriff’s Department. The Audubon County Sheriff’s Department concluded their investigation and then filed criminal charges. The time frame of the misappropriation spans from May 1, 2014 to August 31, 2017.

Iowa State Auditor Mary Mosiman said in a release Thursday that an investigation found more than $42,400 of improper disbursements, including checks issued to or redeemed for cash that went to Thompson and improper purchases on the city’s credit card. The report also found more than $37,000 in undeposited utility collections and nearly $9,000 in unsupported disbursements. (You can read the complete audit report under a separate posting on the kjan.com News page)