Council accepts resignations of mayor and town recorder

FORT GAY, W.Va. (WSAZ) - Fort Gay Town Council on Tuesday night accepted the resignations of their mayor and town recorder, both of whom are accused of embezzling nearly $200,000 from town funds.

Former Mayor Joetta Hatfield and Recorder Sheila Bowen didn’t show up at the meeting but they submitted resignation papers, which council members voted to accept.

Arrested late last month in Wayne County, Hatfield and Bowen are both charged with multiple felonies including fraudulent schemes, embezzlement, falsifying accounts, money laundering and conspiracy.

Following the resignation of both women, the five council members are authorized to write bank checks and they must have two signatures on every check.

A special meeting is set for 6 p.m. Monday, Dec. 9, to discuss appointing a new mayor and recorder.

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