The $3,430 Hole in Spokane's County Books
A three-month audit finds ex-County Clerk Downing $3,430 short and his records 'kept in a very loose manner.' The National Guard captain and rising Spokane politician is held for embezzlement.
Spokane, April 2.—After three months of close inspection of the books of ex-County Clerk Downing, two experts employed by the county have submitted their report. It shows a total shortage of $3,430, and declares that the books were kept in a very loose manner.
Downing was a captain of the National Guard and one of the most influential young politicians of the city. He is now held for trial on a charge of embezzlement.
“It shows a total shortage of $3,430, and declares that the books were kept in a very loose manner.”
Public audits are still how governments catch embezzlement, and the political fall can be swift. Downing's case is a reminder that a ledger, not a speech, can end a career.
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