Gratiot County initiates forensic audit to investigate potential wrongdoing

The Gratiot County Board of Commissioners meeting on February 18, 2025, focused on the ongoing forensic audit related to financial discrepancies within the county. Key discussions revolved around the scope and timeline of the audit, as well as the qualifications of the auditing team.

During the meeting, it was clarified that the forensic audit aims to investigate specific issues of wrongdoing rather than conducting a comprehensive review of all past transactions. The auditors indicated that while they could extend the timeframe of their investigation, they would need to define the specific areas of concern to guide their inquiry. This approach is distinct from a standard financial statement audit, which assesses the accuracy of financial records.

The firm conducting the audit, Yo and Yo, will utilize staff members with certified fraud examiner certifications, ensuring that the team is equipped to handle the complexities of the forensic examination. However, details regarding specific findings, including allegations of misappropriation of funds, were not disclosed during the meeting, as the final results of the audit have yet to be published.

The commissioners emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability, expressing a commitment to keeping the public informed about the audit's findings once they are finalized. The meeting underscored the county's dedication to addressing financial integrity and ensuring that any issues are thoroughly investigated.