No charges filed after Clewiston City Hall raid, but concerns raised

CLEWISTON, Fla. (WINK) — The State Attorney's Office has completed its review of the Hendry County Sheriff's investigation into the City of Clewiston and will not be filing criminal charges.

The investigation started after the sheriff's office raided city hall and seized computers, phones and documents on Oct. 1 last year. A second search warrant was later served at the city's community development building.

• SEE ALSO: Hendry County Sheriff's Office releases statement on Clewiston City Hall Raid

The investigation began after former Clewiston Police Chief Thomas Lewis brought allegations to the sheriff's office involving City Manager Danny Williams and Finance Director Randolph Maxson. The State Attorney's Office sent its findings to Sheriff Steve Whidden.

While no criminal charges will be announced, the State Attorney's Office raised serious concerns about how the city has been operating for 14 years. The office said the investigation revealed questionable practices by executive staff members of Clewiston and a clear lack of oversight, understanding or care by the city commission.

The State Attorney's Office said Williams acted within his legal authority in making two controversial hires, but the circumstances deserve further scrutiny. The investigation also found concerns involving city finances, employee conduct and potential conflicts of interest.

No one will face criminal consequences from the investigation.

To read the full letter of findings from the State Attorney's Office, click here.