The DeKalb County Board of Ethics is moving forward with complaints against former Commissioner Elaine Boyer and her chief of staff, Bob Lundsten.
The board rejected efforts Monday to dismiss the cases and will soon schedule formal hearings.
Both Boyer and Lundsten have been accused by DeKalb resident Tom Owens of abusing their county-issued debit cards for personal benefit.
Boyer has already pleaded guilty to federal charges that she used her purchasing card for personal travel and hotel stays, and that she funneled taxpayer money to her personal bank account.
The ethics complaint against Lundsten, who is still managing Boyer’s office, alleges he used his purchasing card for meals, towing charges and a cable TV bill.
“People want to know what they did and be held accountable for their actions,” said Owens, a candidate in a special election to replace Boyer. “That’s what the citizens want.”
Boyer’s attorney, Anne Lewis, asked the Board of Ethics to dismiss the complaint against her because Boyer is no longer in office. Lundsten’s attorney, Kathryn Zickert, told the board that Lundsten didn’t violate any ethical standards.
The board voted against both of their arguments.
Even though Boyer is no longer in office, the Board of Ethics could potentially issue a public reprimand or a fine against her if she’s found to have violated ethical rules.
The Board of Ethics also has the power to suspend or remove government employees.
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