Audit Clears Sheriff’s Fund of Misuse Allegations

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<p>A federal investigation has unearthed a two-decade-long fraud within the Pima County Sheriff's Department. Funds meant for crime-fighting and prevention were misappropriated by employees.</p>
<p>On February 10, Christopher Radtke, the former second-in-command, admitted to three counts of misdemeanor theft. The funds were illegally diverted from the Sheriff’s Auxiliary Volunteers (SAV) of Pima County account, which is intended for public safety endeavors.</p>
<p>SAV is tasked with supporting residents by performing essential functions for the department. Despite this, Radtke and others misappropriated around $500,000 from 2011 to 2016, although charges have only been brought against Radtke.</p>
<p>In his statement, Radtke claims that department staff manipulated RICO fund usage regulations for 18 years. They created the illusion of donations to the SAV fund while funneling the money back to the department.</p>
<p>Radtke's sentencing is set for May 5th in federal court. Misconduct transpired under former sheriffs Clarence Dupnik and Chris Nanos.</p>
<p>Current Sheriff Mark Napier acknowledges the past infractions but emphasizes current diligence and updated accountability measures. The SAV's financial activity remains partially shielded due to its nonprofit status.</p>
<p>A 2013 audit reviewed SAV expenditures up to Sept 2013, showing an overall compliant but partially opaque financial situation. The major expenses funded annual award ceremonies.</p>
<p>Despite the audit's favorable findings, questions surround the use of transferred RICO funds. Between 2011 and 2013, the department received $304,500 meant for the SAV account.</p>
<p>In 2015, $177,200 in RICO money was requested for SAV use. However, only $75,024 was confirmed spent on crime prevention, leaving another $100,000 unaccounted for.</p>
<p>The FBI probe began following a 2015 article highlighting Radtke’s niece operating cafes at department facilities rent-free. Initially, RICO funds paid for the cafes’ setup, but later revealed to be from the general fund.</p>
<p>Radtke’s indictment lists items purchased for the cafe, including a $2,000 menu board, which contributed to his charges.</p>
<p>Contact reporter Caitlin Schmidt at cschmidt@tucson.com or 573-4191. Twitter: @caitlinschmidt</p>

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