The probe centers on former Director David C. Wilson, who announced his retirement in May shortly after law-enforcement agents seized computers, budget files, and check stubs at the library system’s headquarters. Police also searched Wilson’s home and car, but filed no charges against him.
Wilson’s attorney Jim Wiggins told the News that shortly before the raid, officials at the Cochran branch had asked Wilson about a $5,000 withdrawal from a bank account reserved for library construction funds. “I think David was able to explain that to my satisfaction,” Wiggins said. “There are multiple bank accounts. These things overlap. I couldn’t tell you what check was written for what.”
However, Wiggins acknowledged that other matters are involved “but no one has told us what,” adding that Wilson has not been interviewed by the FBI or GBI. Keith Golden, agent in charge of the Eastman GBI office would only tell reporters his agents were “working at the direction of the U.S. Attorney’s office.”
Georgia State Librarian Lamar Veatch told the News he had been interviewed by the FBI and testified before a grand jury, but has been ordered not to say what was discussed.
Posted December 23, 2004.