An Ohio Auditor of State’s investigation determined former East Cleveland councilman Ernest Smith used a city-owned vehicle for his personal use at the mayor’s direction ― racking up thousands of dollars in taxpayer money.
State: Mayor Brandon King gave councilman use of city vehicles, nearly $7,000 spent on gas aloneEAST CLEVELAND, Ohio - The criminal investigation was initiated in August 2021 after an East Cleveland city council member filed a complaint.
East Cleveland’s city council vice-president Patricia Blochowiak says this type of behavior doesn’t surprise her.On Tuesday, Ohio’s Auditor of State released the results of the investigation, which found King allowed Smith to use the city-owned vehicles during Smith’s term; one that was cut short after he was recalled in November 2022.
The audit goes on to state, “Council attempted to pass a resolution requesting the vehicle be returned to the city. This attempt was vetoed by the Mayor, Brandon King.”Smith has faced problems in the past ― after being arrested in 2019 for unlawfully selling alcohol at a party in Euclid. At the time, rumors swirled there were underage exotic dancers in attendance, something Smith has denied.“Everyone should be outraged by government corruption,” said Blochowiak.
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