November 15, 2017

U.S. Attorney’s Office Indictment of Former Town Treasurer and Administrator

On November 14, 2017, the U.S. Attorney informed Town of Kiawah Island officials that charges have been filed and a federal grand jury has indicted two former Town employees stemming from alleged misuse of Town funds.

The former Town Administrator, Tumiko Rucker and the former Town Treasurer, Harrison Kenneth Gunnells, have been charged with a felony offence of Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud while employed at the Town of Kiawah Island.  Both former employees were terminated from their positions with the Town in 2015 after evidence of their actions was discovered.

Mayor Craig Weaver stated “The Town is grateful to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for their thorough handling of this matter and looks forward to a resolution that provides closure for our residents and staff.  Town officials and staff, past and present, have cooperated at every step of the investigation, including providing background information and financial records which support the Town’s contention of misconduct. The Town will continue to cooperate with the authorities as this case proceeds through the criminal court process.”