Deputy Chief Lewis Lacey of the Dolton Police Department has been indicted on charges of bankruptcy fraud and perjury, facing a maximum of five years in prison for each of the nine counts. Federal prosecutors allege that Lacey underreported his income, hid bank accounts, and made false statements in multiple bankruptcy cases since the 1980s. They also claim that he lied about his marital status and financial contributions from his wife. Lacey is the second village official from Dolton facing bankruptcy fraud charges, following Keith Freeman’s indictment in April.
Lacey’s arraignment date has not been set, and he maintains his innocence through his lawyer. The indictment comes amidst financial turmoil in Dolton, with an investigation revealing mismanagement of finances, including a small group of police officers receiving excessive overtime pay and lack of financial reporting since 2021. Lacey, who was acting police chief, was placed on administrative leave and subsequently fired.
Lacey’s lawyer suggests that the charges are an attempt to target Dolton Mayor Tiffany Henyard, who is also under federal investigation for alleged financial mismanagement. The investigation found that Dolton is over $3.5 million in debt, with credit cards used for unexplained purchases and travel expenses. Mayor Henyard allegedly did not cooperate with the investigation. The situation has created tension within the community, with implications for multiple city officials and the overall governance of Dolton.
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