August 08, 2018
Former Town Administrator and Former Town Treasurer Sentenced
On Tuesday, August 7, former Town Administrator, Tumiko Rucker, and former Town Treasurer, Harrison Kenneth Gunnells were sentenced before the Federal District Court for felony charges of Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud while employed at the Town of Kiawah Island.
Harrison Kenneth Gunnells was sentenced to five years’ probation and ordered to pay full restitution in the amount of $91,815 at a rate of $300 a month. Tumiko Rucker was sentenced to five years’ probation, two years house arrest and 40 hours of community service a week until she finds gainful employment. Ms. Rucker paid full restitution in the amount of $105,010 prior to the sentencing hearing. Sentencing was issued by U.S. District Judge Brucie Hendricks.
In response to yesterday’s action, Mayor Weaver stated “While I may have preferred a stronger penalty by the court, considering the seriousness of charges, I appreciate that it is finally over. What the sentences cannot undo is the damage that this criminal conduct inflicted on the community, the Town’s reputation and our employees. I appreciate the significant effort by law enforcement and the Assistant US Attorney, Rhett DeHart to bring about resolution in this matter.”