CHESTER COUNTY, S.C. — Three former Chester County leaders are facing charges tied to Hurricane Helene relief efforts after South Carolina investigators alleged they misused government funds and misrepresented the Richburg Fire Department’s storm response.
Channel 9’s Tina Terry combed through the slew of charges in this investigation.
South Carolina’s attorney general announced that former Richburg Fire Department Chief Stewart T. Melton and former Lt. Zachary Gibson are charged with misconduct in office.
Investigators say they took government money meant for Hurricane Helene relief and misrepresented the fire department’s response efforts.
The indictment says Melton also obtained two Chevy Caprice police cars from the state surplus, claiming they were for the fire department.
But instead, investigators say he sold them to Councilman John Agee for the councilman’s personal use.
As a result, Agee and Melton are charged with conspiracy.
A lot of people in the county told Terry they’re shocked by the allegations and are waiting to see how it all plays out.
Kathleen Stevens isn’t ready to draw any conclusions about the case against the three Chester County leaders.
“Well, when I first came to the Chester area, I lived in, which I still live in, the Richburg area, and the service out of the Fire District area is amazing, and I’ve known John Aegee for quite a long time,” Stevens said. “And I was very shocked.”
Chester County Councilman Corey Guy confirmed there is an internal investigation that is ongoing.
“I just want the public to know that their government is still here working for them,” he said. “We feel that it’s unfortunate for this county. Me, personally, I don’t like any negative publicity when it comes to Chester County. I want the best for this county.”
Gov. Henry McMaster issued an executive order to remove Agee from his seat on the Chester County Council.
Terry has asked if and when his seat will be filled by someone else.
During this investigation, Melton quit his job with Richburg Fire and was hired as the chief of administration with the Chester Fire District. There is no word on whether he will be placed on leave.
Helene
Helene slammed western North Carolina nearly two years ago.
The damage wiped out communities, making them unrecognizable.
More than 220 people died across the Southeast.
NOAA estimates the damage was close to $79 billion.
Petition
More than 1,500 people signed a petition to scale back plans to remove debris along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
The National Park Service says debris from Helene increased the risk of wildfires.
Officials say it threatens homes and communities.
The work to remove more than 900 acres of fallen trees is expected to begin as early as next month.
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