Investigation Reveals Former Official Used County Funds to Fuel Own Truck

This Feb. 27, 2012 photo, shows gas prices at a Pittsburgh Exxon mini-mart. The price of gasoline rose for the 21st straight day on Tuesday. Drivers are now paying an average of $3.72 a gallon nationwide, about 24 cents more than before the streak began. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

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By Katie Stinson

Story Created: Aug 20, 2012 at 5:54 PM CDT

Story Updated: Aug 20, 2012 at 5:56 PM CDT

BENTON COUNTY - A special investigation conducted by the state of Iowa has revealed that a former Director of the Benton County Conservation Department used the county's charge account to fuel his personal car.

According to a release from the state auditor's office, former Director William Hebner admitted he purchased fuel for his personal vehicle using county funds starting in March of 2011. Documents also said Hebner admitted to purchasing fuel on days when he was on vacation or sick leave.

The investigation was conducted as a request by the county attorney, following concerns about particular financial transactions authorized by Hebner between June 1, 2010 through November 7, 2011.

The release said supporting documentation was not sufficient to to determine whether there were additional gas purchases for personal cars. It also said camping receipts were reviewed to determine whether the collections were deposited with the county treasurer appropriately.

The report also includes recommendations to strengthen the department's internal controls and overall operations to avoid such issues, including improving segregation of duties issuing pre-numbered receipts and preparing an initial receipts listing.

Benton County Attorney Dave Thompson could not immediately be reached for comment regarding whether his office plans to file charges following the report.

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