Published: April 21, 2009 11:36 pm      

Former town of Taylorsville clerk indicted for embezzlement

State Auditor Stacey Pickering announced today that Michelle Sharpley, former municipal court clerk and utility department clerk for the Town of Taylorsville, has been indicted on one count of embezzlement. Sharpley was employed by the Town of Taylorsville from March 2004 through April 2008 and was indicted following an investigation into the missing funds from the Town of Taylorsville Utility Department.

Sharpley, 34, allegedly embezzled $6,041.63 during the nine month period. The investigative cost of $3,226.39 and interest of $411.14 brings the total cost to $9,679.16.

"This is a classic example of an audit leading us to embezzlement," said Pickering. "The missing funds were identified during test work leading up to the audit for year ended September 30, 2007, which was performed by a contracted CPA firm. Our investigators were able to go in and determine the total funds embezzled and bring this case to a close."

Sharpley was arrested by the Smith County Sheriff's Office on Friday, April 17 and was released on a $5,000 bond awaiting trial.