Ex-commissioner Elaine Boyer pleads guilty to wire, mail fraud

DEKALB COUNTY, Ga. — Former DeKalb County Commissioner Elaine Boyer pleaded guilty Wednesday to wire fraud and mail fraud.
 
Boyer faced federal charges of misusing taxpayer money.

After the plea, Boyer was seen crying and hugging people.

In the courtroom, the judge made Boyer admit what she did out loud.

The judge said, “Did you knowingly defraud the people of DeKalb County?” Boyer responded with a “yes.”

Boyer announced her resignation  in an interview with Channel 2 Action News in August.
 
The wire count stems from the use of a county-funded debit card to pay for items like personal flights. In all, they said she spent $15,000 with the card.
 
The other count suggests she billed an advisor for services they never rendered and funneled close to $60,000 in her personal bank account.
 
For his services, the unnamed advisor ended up with about $20,000. Channel 2 Action News uncovered 36 invoices submitted by Marion Rooks Boynton.

The U.S. attorney northern district of Georgia isn't saying what will happen to that person.
 
Boyer's attorney said she cooperating and is very sorry.
 
"She acknowledges she's abused the trust of DeKalb County," said attorney Jeff Brickman." Mrs. Boyer is well aware there is a possibility she could go to prison."

Boyer will be sentenced on Dec. 3 at 3 p.m.  She faces a maximum 40 years and $500,000 fine.

WSBTV