Investigation Underway into Misuse of Taxpayer Dollars
Miami-Dade County is currently embroiled in an investigation into the misuse of taxpayer dollars, specifically regarding the payment of overtime hours to corrections officers and staff who did not actually work those hours. This issue was brought to light by 7News, who obtained documents listing 587 employees’ names, along with the amount of money they were overpaid.
Background on the Issue
Commissioner Keon Hardemon had previously criticized the Miami-Dade Corrections and Rehabilitation Department, stating that it has "a lot of issues with cost" and that he has seen "behavior in the department that is unbecoming." Hardemon’s comments came during an October commission meeting, where he also alluded to the issue of overtime pay, saying "I think the Corrections Department knows that they have an issue with time — what many would describe as theft of time that goes to the tens of millions of dollars."
Extent of the Overpayments
The documents obtained by 7News reveal that the total amount of overpayments exceeds $4 million, with $2.8 million already recouped. The overpayments range from $63 to over $31,000, with some employees appearing multiple times on the list. Sources indicate that these employees put in for overtime and were paid for hours they never actually worked, a practice that has been ongoing for several years.
Response from the Corrections Department
When asked about the overpayments, the Corrections department released a statement saying they are "aware of this matter and a full internal affairs investigation is underway." The department also stated that they are "committed to full transparency, accountability" and that "any misconduct will face appropriate disciplinary action." However, it remains to be seen how the county employees involved will be disciplined and what measures will be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Impact on Taxpayers
The overpayments have real-world consequences for taxpayers, who foot the bill for the fake hours worked by corrections officers and staff. As Commissioner Hardemon noted, "when you start talking about overtime and Corrections," the costs can add up quickly. The investigation is ongoing, and the public awaits answers on how this issue will be addressed.
Conclusion
The investigation into the misuse of taxpayer dollars in Miami-Dade County is a serious matter that warrants attention and action. The fact that millions of dollars were paid out in overtime to employees who did not work those hours is unacceptable and highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability within the Corrections department. As the investigation continues, it is essential that those responsible are held accountable and that measures are taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.
FAQs
- Q: How many employees were involved in the overpayments?
A: According to the documents obtained by 7News, 587 employees’ names were listed, with some appearing multiple times. - Q: What is the total amount of overpayments?
A: The total amount of overpayments exceeds $4 million, with $2.8 million already recouped. - Q: What is the range of overpayments?
A: The overpayments range from $63 to over $31,000. - Q: How will the employees involved be disciplined?
A: The Corrections department has stated that "any misconduct will face appropriate disciplinary action," but the specifics of the disciplinary measures have not been announced. - Q: What is being done to prevent similar incidents in the future?
A: The Corrections department has stated that they are "committed to full transparency, accountability," but the specifics of the measures being taken to prevent similar incidents have not been announced.
CONTACT 7 INVESTIGATES:
305-627-CLUE
954-921-CLUE
7Investigates@wsvn.com
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