NEW VIENNA — A former New Vienna police chief accused of misusing donations for a police K-9 was indicted by a Clinton County grand jury.
Clinton Brown was indicted Dec. 18 on theft in office, a fourth-degree felony, according to the Ohio Auditor’s Office.
“It’s disheartening to see a member of law enforcement exploit a supportive community for personal gain,” Auditor Dave Yost said. “I’m confident that justice will prevail once Mr. Brown has his day in court.”
The village reportedly lost a total of $5,776.
Approximately $14,020 was donated between Jan. 21 and June 26, 2017, to the New Vienna Police Department K-9 Fund, which was an account set up in Brown’s name.
Brown reportedly received the dog, Paige, in March 2017.
The state’s Public Integrity Assurance Team looked into Brown’s use of the donations after New Vienna Mayor Kathi Stone requested an investigation.
During the investigation, the former police chief reportedly admitted to using the money for personal expenses, including clothing, food and gas.
Brown resigned in December 2017.
After his resignation, the village discovered an outstanding bill of $2,000 for a vehicle cage for a police cruiser. The village also owed $700 for K-9 handler training, according to the auditor’s office.