CHARLESTON, WV (LOOTPRESS) – A Wayne County grand jury has returned a nine-count indictment against former Fort Gay Mayor Joetta R. Hatfield and former Treasurer and Recorder Sheila K. Bowen.
The two are facing charges of embezzlement, fraudulent schemes, conspiracy, falsifying accounts, and computer fraud, following allegations that they diverted more than $370,000 in public funds over an eight-year period.
According to the indictment, which is based on an investigation by the West Virginia Auditor’s Public Integrity & Fraud Unit, the alleged misconduct took place between February 2017 and February 2025.
Investigators say Hatfield and Bowen used their official positions to issue unauthorized vendor and payroll checks, withdraw cash, overcompensate themselves for leave, and adjust utility payments—all for personal gain.
Hatfield is accused of embezzling approximately $245,000, while Bowen is alleged to have taken around $127,000.
West Virginia State Auditor Mark Hunt said the investigation began after a routine financial audit by the office’s Chief Inspector Division.
“These indictments demonstrate the importance of regular oversight when it comes to protecting taxpayer dollars,” said Auditor Hunt.
The indictment further alleges that Hatfield and Bowen manipulated the town’s financial records and computer systems to conceal the fraud and misrepresent Fort Gay’s financial status.
If convicted, both face significant prison time and may be required to pay restitution.
The auditor’s office says that an indictment is merely an accusation. All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
