MARION, OH (MARION COUNTY NOW)—Federal law enforcement agencies, alongside the Marion Police Department, are diving into a significant fraud case involving $40,000 from the City of Marion’s general fund at Fahey Bank.
This investigation arose during the Marion City Council committee meeting on October 20, where City Auditor Miranda Meginness disclosed that the city’s general fund had been compromised in July, following the interception of a check sent through the mail.
Auditor Meginness reported that all misappropriated funds have since been restored.
According to police, the fraudulent activities began on July 9 and extended into mid-August, with the incident first reported to authorities on July 18. A police report was subsequently filed on July 21.
The Marion Police are collaborating with the U.S. Postal Inspection Service to unravel the case.
While law enforcement officials have identified several suspects, no arrests have been made to date. The investigation remains ongoing.
During the committee meeting, Auditor Meginness suggested that a check mailed to a city vendor was intercepted, “washed,” and manipulated to facilitate the fraud.
The gravity of the situation led 2nd Ward Council member Twila Laing to question Meginness extensively about the existing protocols for check writing and measures to prevent future fraud incidents.
The City Council continues to address concerns surrounding financial security within municipal operations.