Two former city officials in Story County are facing criminal charges after a state audit report recently revealed improper transactions that occurred during their tenure involving city fund accounts.

Former McCallsburg Mayor Chris Erickson and former City Clerk Jennifer Heithoff, are both charged with Felonious Misconduct in Office, a Class D Felony; Fraudulent Practice, a Class D Felony; and Tampering with Records, which is an Aggravated Misdemeanor.

The investigation stems from a state audit report conducted in April of 202o that revealed irregularities with certain financial transactions.

The investigation revealed Erickson owed a total of $2,138 for water utility bills during a period between September of 2017 through July of 2019.  During that time, Heithoff allegedly adjusted Erickson’s account giving the appearance of the balance being paid.

The investigation further revealed that subsequent to Heithoff resigning, the amount was zeroed out.  It was further noted that Erickson was the only cited official known to have access to the billing software a the time.

Investigators say Heithoff was claiming over twice the amount of hours she was authorized to work and provided no documentation to the city.  The investigation further revealed that she claimed fraudulent mileage reimbursements, as well.

Erickson then signed Heithoff’s payroll and mileage reimbursement checks.