The FBI is investigating misconduct allegations against Dolton, Illinois Mayor Tiffany Henyard, including claims of punishing a business owner for not donating to an event she held.
Henyard has faced criticism for her high salary and lavish lifestyle compared to the town’s residents’ median income.
Several individuals, including business owners and public officials, have spoken to the FBI about Henyard’s behavior.
Dolton-based U-Haul rental and trucking business owner, Lawrence Gardner, said, “I talked to a couple of [FBI] agents and I explained to them what’s going on.”
“I gave them all my paperwork to show them what was happening in court and what was happening in Dolton. And they told me they were investigating and would be in touch with me.”
Some believe they have faced retaliation for not supporting her events.
Restauranteur Dewayne Wood said, “I’ve heard rumors that say, hey I’m on the wrong team.”
“I think I’ve been targeted because of my association, affiliation with a certain group of people. The trustees. I’ve cooked for the trustees,” he continued.
Dolton Trustee Jason House wrote in a statement, “The Board of Trustees and I have repeatedly questioned the Mayor’s Office on her use of public funds.”
He added, “We welcome any investigation that will bring transparency on how taxpayer dollars are being spent. Our residents deserve this level of financial transparency.”
Henyard’s office has denied being contacted by the FBI.
A spokesperson for Mayor Henyard said, “Mayor Tiffany Henyard and the Village of Dolton have not received any subpoenas and have not been contacted by the FBI or any other law enforcement agency.”