Columbus – A former deputy fiscal officer failed to deposit more than $26,000 into the Westerville School District Library’s (Franklin County) bank accounts, according to an audit released today by Auditor of State Dave Yost.

“Weak internal controls leave tax dollars vulnerable,” Auditor Yost said. “When there are sticky fingers and a lack of oversight, the taxpayers lose.”

From 2011 through 2014, it was determined that over the counter cash revenue totaling $26,062 was not deposited into the library’s bank accounts. The library and the Westerville Police Department identified the cash receipts as unaccounted for and not deposited by Deputy Fiscal Officer Troy Cockrell.

A finding for recovery in the amount of $26,062 was issued against Cockrell. He was terminated from employment on October 28, 2014, and on September 2, 2015, he pled guilty to a third-degree felony charge of theft in office. As of the date of this release, a sentencing hearing is set for October 15.

A full copy of this audit may be accessed online.

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The Auditor of State’s office, one of five independently elected statewide offices in Ohio, is responsible for auditing more than 5,800 state and local government agencies.  Under the direction of Auditor Dave Yost, the office also provides financial services to local governments, investigates and prevents fraud in public agencies and promotes transparency in government.

Contact:
Brittany Halpin
Press Secretary
614-644-1111