Dolton Mayor Under Fire as Misconduct Allegations Trigger Funding Suspension

Dolton Mayor Tiffany Henyard faces multiple investigations and funding suspension amidst allegations of misconduct and misuse of public funds.

At a Glance

Illinois Comptroller suspends funding to Dolton due to Mayor Henyard’s failure to submit financial reports
FBI investigating allegations of financial mismanagement and misuse of taxpayer funds
Henyard accused of directing police to follow orders from a controversial figure within the department
Public outcry grows, with residents calling for Henyard’s resignation or removal from office
Henyard denies allegations and vetoes village board resolution to investigate her spending

Financial Misconduct Allegations Spark Multiple Investigations

Dolton, Illinois, finds itself at the center of a political storm as Mayor Tiffany Henyard faces serious allegations of financial misconduct and abuse of power. The Illinois Comptroller has taken the drastic step of suspending funding to the village, citing Henyard’s failure to submit required financial reports for 2022 and 2023. This action has thrust the small community into the national spotlight and raised questions about the mayor’s leadership and fiscal responsibility.

The FBI has launched an investigation into Henyard’s alleged misuse of taxpayer dollars, including unauthorized spending on out-of-town trips and police overtime for personal security. Six individuals, including business owners, a former village employee, and a public official, have confirmed being interviewed by federal agents. The scope of the investigation appears to be broad, with electronic surveillance reportedly being employed to gather evidence.

FBI probes misconduct allegations against Dolton Mayor Tiffany Henyard https://t.co/WuSe3NH0Zy

— FOX 32 News (@fox32news) February 21, 2024

Controversial Leadership and Public Outcry

Henyard, who was elected in 2021 and holds dual roles as Dolton mayor and Thornton Township supervisor, earning over $246,000 annually, has been dubbed the “Dictator Mayor” by critics. Her leadership style has come under fire, with former employees and officials expressing fear of retaliation for speaking out against her. The mayor’s actions have raised concerns about potential long-term liabilities and expenses for the village.

“I’m asking that you either step down or the trustees that voted you in to vote you out,” one speaker said at a recent village board meeting.

Public sentiment has turned increasingly negative, with residents calling for Henyard’s resignation or removal from office. The village board has approved a resolution calling for an investigation into the mayor’s conduct, which Henyard promptly vetoed, further fueling the controversy.

Questionable Spending and Alleged Misuse of Funds

The allegations against Henyard are numerous and varied. Former Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot reported financial mismanagement under Henyard’s leadership, including a staggering $43,000 spent on Amazon in a single day. Henyard is also accused of funneling taxpayer money to a private foundation bearing her name, spending on unauthorized ice rinks, and funding a group bicycle ride to Springfield for a bill that was never filed.

Adding to the controversy, Deputy Chief Lewis Lacey, an ally of Henyard, was indicted on bankruptcy fraud charges and placed on administrative leave. Despite this, Henyard allegedly ordered police officers to continue following Lacey’s directives, raising questions about her judgment and the integrity of the police department’s chain of command.

Mayor’s Response and Ongoing Investigations

In response to the mounting criticism, Henyard has remained defiant. At a recent board meeting, she arrived dressed as a character from “New Jack City” and brought a DJ to punctuate her points, a move that many found inappropriate given the serious nature of the allegations against her.

As the investigations continue, the future of Dolton’s governance remains uncertain. The FBI’s involvement suggests the seriousness of the allegations, and the outcome could have significant implications for the village’s financial stability and public trust in local government. Dolton Trustee Jason House expressed support for the investigation, emphasizing the need for financial transparency.

The unfolding situation in Dolton serves as a stark reminder of the importance of accountability and transparency in local government. As federal and state authorities dig deeper into the allegations surrounding Mayor Henyard, the residents of Dolton are left to grapple with the potential consequences of their leader’s actions and the long road to restoring faith in their local institutions.