AdCo Dems Turn Over Records For Investigation

Written by Brian Maass

 
Elmer "Butch" Hicks 
DENVER (CBS4) ?

"There were definitely questionable things done that I would not have allowed to happen if I knew," said Marty Wisniewski, the chairman of the Adams County Democratic Party, which he said takes in about $24,000 each year in contributions. "We’re finding more and more."

Wisniewski indicated the former volunteer treasurer for the Adams County Democratic Party, Elmer "Butch" Hicks, is at the center of the controversy. Hicks went on to become treasurer for the Colorado Democratic Party, a position he abruptly resigned last week citing "personal reasons," according to Pat Waak, Colorado Democratic Party Chair.      

According to Wiesniwski, Adams County Democrats initiated an audit last summer encompassing the previous three years when Hicks controlled the books. He said the audit revealed "discrepancies in funds. It wasn’t perfect, that’s for sure." In recent months, Wiesniwski said the former treasurer has reimbursed the party for numerous expenses that were apparently not authorized. Wiesniwski declined to provide specifics.

He said the professional audit was completed about two weeks ago. Since then, Hicks has repaid another $150 which Wiesniwski says was money derived from contributions that Hicks used to pay for his personal cell phone. There were items paid for that were "not appropriate," Wiesniwski said.

He said some electronic banking records were provided to the Adams County sheriff earlier this week and additional records will be turned over Friday.

"There was lot of trust there," said Wiesniwski, "but not much oversight."

Hicks, a Regional Transportation District bus driver and a former Westminster City Council member, told CBS4 whatever occurred was "accidental … not something I intentionally did." He said he resigned his position with the state Democratic Party over "some political stuff." When asked if his resignation was related to the Adams County flap, Hicks said, "I’m not supposed to talk about that," and referred questions to an attorney.