For Release: September 20, 2007
Contact: J. Tucker Martin or David Clementson
Email: tucker.martin@oag.state.va.us or dclementson@oag.state.va.us
Phone: 804-786-2071
Statement of Chief Deputy Attorney General William C. Mims
On Indictments Regarding the Department of Game and
Inland Fisheries Investigation
Richmond- Chief Deputy Attorney General William C. Mims released the following statement regarding indictments unsealed today and earlier this week in the investigation of the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (DGIF). On September 12, 2007, the Richmond multi-jurisdiction grand jury handed down indictments against three former DGIF employees for misuse of state funds. The indicted employees are: Michael G. Caison (2 indictments); Terry C. Bradbery (1 indictment); and William L. Woodfin, Jr. (2 indictments).
“These indictments by the grand jury reflect the Commonwealth’s continuing commitment to thoroughly investigate the prior financial activities at DGIF. Based on the report submitted by the State Internal Auditor in 2005, the Office of the Attorney General, in conjunction with the Virginia State Police and Richmond Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office, has systematically and exhaustively investigated this matter to determine if criminal conduct occurred. The timeframe of the investigation spanned a five-year period from 1999 to 2004 with many thousands of pages of records being reviewed and numerous interviews being conducted.”
“Indictments are a grand jury’s determination that there is probable cause to believe crimes were committed. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. Therefore this Office will make no further statement at this time about the allegations in the indictments or the conduct of those indicted. No additional indictments are being sought at this time. The prosecution will be handled jointly by the Richmond Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office and this Office.”
“Additionally, as a result of this investigation, this Office will propose legislation during the 2008 Session of the General Assembly. The legislation will be both specific to DGIF and general to state and local government regarding the obligation to be a good steward of our citizens’ tax dollars.”
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