Forkland Mayor Surrenders to Face Felony Charges. Derrick Biggs, the mayor of Forkland, Alabama, has surrendered to Greene County authorities and will now face charges of first-degree theft and tampering with government records. Biggs had been sought by police since it was discovered that more than $6,000 was missing from the Forkland’s water department. If convicted, Biggs would have to vacate the office of mayor of the town since state law prohibits a person with a felony conviction from holding elective office. Records show that Biggs was booked into the Greene County Jail at 11:49 a.m. on Wednesday morning.
An investigation by the Greene County Sheriff’s Office remains ongoing. However, Forkland’s water clerk, Allene Broadwater, reported on Monday that a total of $6,413.19. Furthermore, is currently unaccounted for between December 2013 and April 2014. The discrepancy was first found a few months ago when Broadwater examined the daily cash payments and nightly deposits. She reported this information to her supervisor. Therefore, who discovered the discrepancies were only taking place on deposits made by or approved by Biggs.
Biggs won his position in an August 2012 municipal election. He is now the second consecutive mayor of the town to be accused of stealing public money while in office. The former mayor of Forkland, Eddie J. Woods, left office after facing a theft charge in Greene County Circuit Court for allegedly stealing money from the town. The case against Woods is still pending.
In the state of Alabama, theft of property in the first degree is a Class B felony. The sentencing range for this crime is no more than twenty years in prison, and no less than two years. A fine may also be imposed for these charges, but may not exceed $10,000.00.
If you or someone you know has been accused of theft, it is important that you contact a criminal attorney to handle your case. The lawyers at Boles Holmes White are experienced in a variety of legal matters and have a history of success in the courtroom. Call to schedule a free consultation today.
