State Auditor Charges Indianola Aldermen with Misappropriating $38,900 in Public Funds

JACKSON, Miss. – State Auditor Shad White announced today that Special Agents from his office served City of Indianola Aldermen Ruben Woods, Marvin Elder, and Sam Brock Jr. with civil demands totaling $42,441.15. They collectively misappropriated $38,900 in public funds to be paid to Spencer Construction without a binding, enforceable contract.

In September 2019, the city of Indianola contracted with Mississippi Home Corporation (MHC) to receive grant funds for rehabilitating homes for low-income homeowners. Indianola then contracted South Delta Planning and Development District (SDPDD) for administrative services related to the grant.

Spencer Construction contracted for renovations to a residency, funded by the MHC grant. However, SDPDD submitted the payment request paperwork after the deadline, causing the payment to be denied.

Indianola Aldermen Woods, Elder, and Brock Jr. voted to pay Spencer Construction $38,900 despite the city not having a written contract for the work. Special Agents served all three with civil demands. No prosecutor has charged these individuals with a crime.

“It’s vitally important that government officials follow the proper process for spending taxpayer funds. This guarantees those funds are not misused,” said State Auditor Shad White.

Report suspected fraud to the Auditor’s office online by clicking the red button at www.osa.ms.gov. Also, you can call 1-(800)-321-1275 during normal business hours.