WECT has brought to light an investigation by the North Carolina State Board of Elections into Pender County Board of Commissioners Chairman Brad George. This investigation focuses on alleged violations of campaign finance law during his recent election bid. When contacted, George denied the ongoing investigation and claimed to have been cleared of any wrongdoing, declining to provide on-camera answers. A spokesperson for the NCSBE stated that due to the confidentiality of campaign finance investigations, they couldn't offer comments. If the investigation reveals sufficient evidence against George, he could face civil penalties and a public hearing. Criminal violations of North Carolina general statute 163-278 can range from misdemeanors to a Class 1 felony.The investigation was initiated by a formal complaint sent in September to the state elections board and the State Bureau of Investigation. The complaint alleges that George failed to submit campaign finance disclosure reports on time and is missing disbursement and expenditure records. However, documents provided by the Pender County Board of Elections seem to refute some of these allegations. For instance, George's first quarter campaign finance disclosure report, which was alleged to be missing as of Sept. 13, was actually filed on Feb. 21 and a copy was sent by the board. Additionally, there were additional expenses and contributions not mentioned in the complaint.The complaint also alleges that George violated the North Carolina self-dealing statute by participating in discussions and voting on the Pender County 2024-25 budget ordinance, which allocated funds to Pender EMS and Fire where his wife is an employee. The North Carolina General Statute 14-234 outlines rules against public officers deriving a "direct benefit" from contracts they helped create. Jason Smith, the District Attorney for Pender and New Hanover Counties, confirmed on Wednesday that a case related to the self-dealing allegations has been closed by the investigating agencies with no charges recommended. An SBI spokesperson also confirmed that they have no active investigation into George.In a statement, Pender County EMS & Fire Chief James Everett Baysden explained that they were made aware of the allegations against George on Oct. 22 by detectives from the Pender County Sheriff's Office. "Pender EMS and Fire fully cooperated with the investigation, providing all information and documentation to show that these allegations were false. Later, we were notified that the investigation was being closed by the District Attorney as the case was unfounded and no crimes or wrongdoings had been committed by either party."

Key Takeaways

Campaign Finance Investigation

The North Carolina State Board of Elections is looking into Brad George's campaign finance practices. He denied the investigation and claimed innocence. The investigation's confidentiality prevents immediate comments. Potential consequences include civil penalties and a public hearing.

Disputed Allegations

Documents from the Pender County Board of Elections challenge some complaint details. George's first quarter report was filed earlier than alleged. Extra expenses and contributions were also provided.

Self-Dealing Allegations

George is accused of violating the self-dealing statute by participating in budget discussions and voting. The North Carolina General Statute 14-234 prohibits public officers from benefiting directly from contracts they create. The case was closed with no charges recommended.

Cooperation and Closure

Pender County EMS & Fire fully cooperated with the investigation and provided evidence of the allegations' falsity. The District Attorney closed the case, stating no crimes were committed. The SBI also confirmed no active investigation.