Local sheriff accused of embezzlement

MIDDLESEX COUNTY, Va. (WAVY) - The Middlesex County sheriff is being investigated by police for allegedly using county and state funds for himself.

Search warrants were filed in Chesapeake court this week for a BB&T account and a Wachovia account, one belonging to the Sheriff Guy Abbott's forfeiture account, the other to what appears to be his personal account.

"I would hate to think that people that are suppose to protect us would go ahead and do something like that," said Middlesex County resident Dee Bookins.

Investigators searched bank statements, signature cards, deposit slips and checks dating back 10 years. They found evidence to support allegations of embezzlement and misuse of county and state funds.

Those funds were allegedly allocated for personal use by county officials, namely Abbott.

Evidence included receipts from the Middlesex County sheriff's office asset forfeiture account and reports Abbott sent to the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services.

There were also 21 itemized Mastercard statements between 2000 and 2002.

"If it is the case, that he is taking local tax payers money and using it for personal use then, he just misused his position," said resident Tim Borum.

In March, Abbott told said he was innocent.

"I'm still sheriff," he said. "All the deputies are still working. All these rumors are not true."

He also told said he believes he will still be sheriff once the truth comes out.

"Now a days anything is possible with society," Bookins said.

"You're talking about a position that is held with good faith and honor and when you abuse that it isn't fair for the local residents as well," Borum added.

Other affidavits filed in Middlesex circuit court in connection to this same investigation are under seal by a judge's order.

The sheriff is yet to be charged.