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Pinal County board unanimously refers alleged misuse of public funds and missing records to Arizona Attorney General
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Summary
The Board of Supervisors voted to refer allegations that the Pinal County Attorney's Office spent public money without authorization and failed to retain public records to the Arizona Attorney General's Office after counsel said the issues surfaced during the investigation of unauthorized hires.
The Pinal County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a referral to the Arizona Attorney General's Office seeking review of allegations that the county attorney's office spent public funds without prior authorization and failed to retain public records.
Joe Canfield, counsel for the board with Snell & Wilmer, told supervisors the matters were uncovered during an investigation into two unauthorized hires earlier in the meeting. Canfield said the issues included "allegations of public monies and services being spent without prior authorization or approval" and instances where the office "failed to retain public records." He said these are matters the Arizona Attorney General's Office handles and recommended a formal referral.
Supervisor Gitman asked counsel whether failing to report the allegations could expose the board to liability. Canfield replied, "That's correct," stating the board is obligated to refer the matters given how they were revealed.
Chairman McClure moved to approve Item 3 as presented; Supervisor Steve Miller seconded. The board voiced approval and the chair announced the action was unanimous. The referral sends the allegations to the Arizona Attorney General for review; the Attorney General's office will determine next steps.
The board did not disclose additional details about the specific expenditures or the records at issue in open session. The meeting was adjourned after the vote.
