Missouri State Auditor Nicole Galloway has issued a statement following felony charges of stealing and forgery filed against the former Coffey city clerk, Mary Lou Browning.

“Betrayal of public trust demands immediate action to restore the confidence of taxpayers. I appreciate the quick response by Prosecuting Attorney Annie Gibson in light of my audit last month. My office stands ready to assist law enforcement as this case proceeds.”

An audit released in July found more than $60,000 went missing from the small northwest Missouri town. Over a period of almost two years, the former city clerk failed to make deposits, received improper payroll payments, and falsified board minutes and various financial reports.

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