The office of District Attorney Greg Newman announced Monday, Oct. 20 that a criminal investigation of former Polk County Board of Elections director Tracey Waters is not recommended. Waters was hired as director of the Polk County Board of Elections in February 2013 and resigned in August 2014 when it was learned that she used a Polk County issued credit card for personal uses. The amount in question is approximately $2,000. Restitution has been made to Polk County and Waters resigned from her position as director.

“After meeting with Interim Polk County Manager Marche Pittman, and Polk County Attorney Jana Berg, I am satisfied that the matter has been handled properly by Polk County and that Ms. Waters’ resignation from her post as elections director is a wise decision, “ explained the District Attorney.   “Since the taxpayers of Polk County have been reimbursed, I do not feel that a criminal investigation is necessary and that is why I did not refer the matter to Polk County Sheriff, Donald Hill.

“I concluded, after reviewing the facts, that this case is more a personnel than a criminal matter and the issues with Ms. Waters have been resolved in Polk County’s favor, “ added Mr. Newman.

 

The District Attorney welcomes any questions or comments and can be contacted at (828) 694-4200.

 

– article submitted by

Cindy Taylor, District Attorney’s Office, Prosecutorial District 29-B