Public commenter alleges unauthorized access, removal of documents from Treasurer’s vault

During the public-comment period on Oct. 7, Steve Opland (identified in the minutes as the spouse of County Treasurer Becky Fields) said an incident occurred in early April in which Treasurer-elect Amy Perkins entered the Treasurer's vault without permission and removed documents. Opland said those records included protected vehicle records and that local officials — including the County Attorney, the Sheriff and the Newton Police Department — were contacted but did not pursue an investigation. "This incident has already been covered up and swept under the rug," Opland told the commission, and he asked that the vault breach and alleged theft be placed on the record.

The commissioners did not take formal action during the Oct. 7 meeting on the allegations and no law-enforcement response is recorded in the minutes. The minutes identify the parties (Becky Fields as current Treasurer and Amy Perkins as Treasurer-elect) but do not record a response from the County Attorney, the Sheriff, Newton police or the named individuals. The county clerk's and administrator's reports at the meeting focused on administrative items; the commission did not direct staff to open an investigation on the record during this session.

Because the allegation concerns an apparent potential criminal matter and names private individuals, county officials and law enforcement are the appropriate avenues for follow-up. The minutes record the allegation but do not document corroboration, an investigation, or any findings.