Secretary with OSMRE Indicted for Misuse of Government Fleet Cards

OIG investigated allegations that a former Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSMRE) secretary had used Government fleet cards for personal expenses. The secretary resigned from her position amid suspicions but before administrative action could be taken. We confirmed that, while employed by OSMRE, she used Government fleet cards to make personal purchases and payments, totaling approximately $1,900. A Kentucky grand jury indicted Estes, and she pleaded guilty to one count of theft of Government money. Estes was sentenced to 24 months of probation and ordered to pay $2,000.73 in fines and restitution. 

 

This is a summary of an investigative report that was issued to the Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement.