After investigating the questionable use of public funds by the Chatham County coroner’s office, the GBI has turned its findings over to the district attorney.
Special Agent in Charge Cathy Sapp said on Monday the report was submitted to District Attorney Meg Heap’s office after Sapp’s agency initiated the investigation in late December.
Sapp said she could not provide any details about its findings.
Heap said Thursday it could take about two weeks before a decision is made on how to proceed. She said she could not provide details of the report because the investigation is ongoing.
The GBI launched the investigation into questionable expenses stemming from the coroner’s office, following an internal county audit and the resignation of Dr. James C. Metts Jr.
Metts, 81, submitted his resignation on Dec. 14, about one month after being re-elected as coroner in an uncontested race. He held the position since 1973.
Metts and his attorney could not be reached for comment Thursday.
Following the audit, the county received two checks totaling $141,000 from Metts to resolve the “accounting discrepancies” discovered during the review.
Auditors cited at least $141,000 in expenses as “questionable” — including payments for a secretary that Metts did not have — although additional funds of almost $100,000 for secretary reimbursement could not be verified due to a lack of documentation.