A Georgia city clerk has been nabbed for allegedly using the city's plastic for her own shopping sprees. Kelly Hancock, 44, of Pelham, was charged with felony theft after investigators said she went on a $15,000 personal spending jaunt with a government-issued credit card. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) arrested Hancock on May 28, after being called in by local sheriff's deputies to look into suspected financial shenanigans in the tiny town of Sale City.
Hancock, who had the city's banking card in her possession for legitimate municipal duties, reportedly made "numerous personal purchases," according to the GBI's statement. The alleged theft is ballparked at about 15 grand but, as the investigation and audits advance, that number could climb.
As the city clerk, Hancock was in charge of handling Sale City’s financials, but now she’s facing the music after the probe uncovered the misappropriation of funds. The ripple effect of her arrest is triggering audits and a deeper look into the city's books. Handcuffed and hauled off to Mitchell County Jail, Hancock has not yet sung her tune on these allegations.
With the case still active, the GBI is encouraging anyone with the skinny to come forward. Tips can be relayed through various channels, including a call to the GBI Regional Investigative Office in Thomasville, at 229-225-4090, or submitting anonymously by ringing 1-800-597-TIPS (8477). Alternatively, narks have the option to go online at the GBI's website or, use the See Something, Send Something mobile app.
