Cherrie Payne was arrested earlier this week after an investigation by Gordon County Sheriff’s deputies.

Payne is charged with theft by taking, false statements, concealment of facts and offenses involving public records, according to jail records.

She was subsequently terminated after working for the city for about a year.

Sources close to the investigation, speaking on condition of anonymity, said Payne charged gasoline for her personal vehicle to the police department. Fairmount Police Chief Andy Keys discovered the discrepancies. It is believed Payne also took cash payments for permits and water bills, but did not issue any receipts for them.

Walker County Messenger