Special Grand Jury Probes Victor Hill’s Campaign Spending

CLAYTON COUNTY, Ga.,None — Channel 2 Action News has learned a special grand jury is investigating former Clayton County Sheriff Victor Hill on corruption charges.

The grand jury spent Friday hearing from witnesses. Hill was defeated in 2008 by current Sheriff Kem Kimbrough.

Sources said the grand jury subpoenaed documents from the Georgia Government Transparency and Campaign Finance Commission. The Commission has looked into a number of ethics complaints concerning Hill and is reportedly looking into whether Hill used campaign funds for personal use.

Clayton County District Attorney Tracy Graham Lawson refused to comment when Channel 2's Tom Jones asked about the special panel.

But law enforcement sources told Jones that the panel is looking into Hill for the offenses -- theft by taking, violation of oath of office, sale of real or personal property to political subdivision by local officer or employee and racketeer influenced and corrupt organizations, or RICO.

Former Clayton County Solicitor Keith Martin said special purpose grand juries aren't used often.

"I've been in this county 40 years and I recollect two of them," Martin said.

Hill is trying to get his old job back.

When Jones reached him by phone, the candidate said to call his public information officer.

Shegale Crute then sent Jones a statement saying Hill is focused solely on reducing crime and not political distractions. She said Hill has not been contacted about a grand jury investigation.

The statement went on to say: During my service as State Legislator from 2003 until now, all Personal Financial Disclosure Statements and consequently any and all Company information have been fully disclosed. These disclosures were properly filed and have been available as a matter of public record since 2003.

Attorney Keith Martin said the special purpose grand jury could return with an indictment or a presentment, which criticizes or compliments the person they investigated.

Graham-Lawson wouldn't comment when asked her how long the panel would meet or when they'd make a decision.

WSBTV