Columbus – The Cardinal Joint Fire District (Mahoning County) overpaid its chief $16,360 over a three-year period, according to an audit released today by Auditor of State Dave Yost.

During a review of payroll records, auditors discovered that Chief Donald Hutchison was compensated 26 pays, but each pay was calculated using the 24-pay amount. This resulted in overpayments of $4,977, $5,608 and $5,775 in 2012, 2013 and 2014, respectively.

“These overpayments should have set off a fiscal fire alarm for the district’s payroll personnel,” Auditor Yost said. “But I’m pleased to see Chief Hutchison is working toward a full repayment of the funds.”

A finding for recovery in the amount of $16,360 was issued against Hutchison in favor of the district’s general fund. He entered into a repayment plan with the district that withholds $150 from each pay for a total of 110 pay periods. As of April 22, Hutchison has repaid a total of $4,200.

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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:
Ben Marrison
Director of Communications
614-644-1111