Columbus – Three Hamilton Township (Lawrence County) public officials were improperly reimbursed $6,188 for medical and hospital expenses, according to an audit released today by Auditor of State Dave Yost.

Findings of the audit indicate the following officials received reimbursements for out-of-pocket medical costs:

• Former Township Fiscal Officer Terri Robinson received reimbursements totaling $2,500 in 2013;
• Township Trustee Robert Blankenship received reimbursements totaling $2,166 in 2012 and 2013;
• Township Trustee Larry Fraley received reimbursement for $1,522 in 2013.

According to the Ohio Revised Code, reimbursements are permitted for insurance premiums, not the costs of medical services. 

“The fiscal officers and trustees are responsible for compliance with these laws and regulations,” said Ohio Auditor Dave Yost. “I am pleased that the trustees have already repaid the amount owed to the township.”

As trustees, Blankenship, Fraley and the late William Robinson, and their bonding companies are jointly and severally liable for $2,500 because they signed the warrants resulting in the improper payment to Terri Robinson. Under Ohio law, township payments require at least two trustee signatures in addition to the fiscal officer. 

On Sept. 13, 2016, Blankenship paid $2,166 and Fraley paid $1,522 to Hamilton Township. These findings for recovery are considered to be repaid in full. 

A full copy of this report is available 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 5,900 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:
Beth Gianforcaro
Press Secretary
614-644-1111