State auditors are continuing their investigation into the financial records of Homewood, Alabama, following the discovery of a massive theft. The probe was initiated after the former finance director, Robert Burgett, was arrested and charged with a Class A felony for Aggravated Theft by Deception. Burgett allegedly misappropriated nearly $950,000 from city funds before his retirement. The investigation involves reviewing expenditures, contracts, city policies, and compliance with internal policies.

Initially, the state auditors were reviewing Homewood’s financial records in January, but the scope of the investigation expanded significantly after Burgett’s arrest. The Alabama Department of Examiners of Public Accounts is authorized to review any entity handling public funds, and they can act on complaints or tips from the public. The auditors are examining various financial transactions, including credit card expenses, food receipts, and educational reimbursements. The city has implemented measures to improve financial transparency, such as reducing the number of city-issued credit cards and implementing an online system for expense documentation.

The investigation is ongoing, and the state auditors are working to determine the extent of the theft and whether any other city officials were involved. The Homewood Police Department, the FBI, and the Jefferson County District Attorney’s Office are also involved in the investigation. The city council’s finance committee reviews credit card expenses monthly, and the full council votes on approval. The probe aims to ensure that Homewood’s financial practices comply with its own policies and state regulations.