Donald Barrett, ex-manager of White Ford in Chiefland, is being investigated for grand theft by the State Attorney’s Office in connection with $709,000 in expenditures over the past 12 years according to a Chiefland Police Department report.

The sworn complaint came after an extensive two-month audit by the dealership’s attorney John Bovay and certified public accountant Jeff Crippen. The audit began after Barrett’s employment was terminated June 11, and focused on Barrett’s financial dealings and ventures while he was employed with White Ford, according to the Nov. 14 police report. 

“Upon completion of the audit, it was discovered and determined that during Mr. Barrett’s tenure with the White Ford Company, he had facilitated long-term fraud, embezzlement, and theft,” the police report stated. 

In addition to money, the theft also involved various company owed items including motor vehicles, parts and trailers, fuel, golf carts, a generator and other items of value, according the report.  

Barrett is also accused of setting up a false payroll account for his son Ralph Barrett, who, according to White Ford records, has never been employed by the company. Over the course of ten years Ralph Barrett has received payroll payments from White Ford totaling $407,291, according to the report. 

Management at White Ford declined to comment on the investigation.