Lori Lightfoot uncovers shocking details of Tiffany Henyard's questionable financial habits, revealing a sharp decline in village funds and excessive personal spending, prompting an FBI investigation.
As the spotlight intensifies on the embattled Mayor of Dolton, Illinois, Tiffany Henyard, former Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot has come forward with a damning report detailing Henyard's extravagant spending habits and alleged financial misdeeds.
Lightfoot, hired as a special investigator by the Village of Dolton, presented a preliminary report earlier this month, raising serious concerns about Henyard's handling of public funds. The report revealed that in April 2022, Dolton's general fund balance stood at a robust $5.61 million, but by May 2024, it had plunged into a deficit of $3.65 million, signaling a substantial financial drain.
Former Chicago Mayor Lightfoot Exposes Dolton Mayor Henyard's Lavish Spending
Lightfoot's investigation further disclosed that Henyard had used the village credit card for personal purchases at a wide range of retailers, including Amazon, Target, Walgreens, and Wayfair. One particularly alarming transaction caught the public's attention: a staggering $33,000 worth of Amazon purchases made on a single day, January 5, 2023.
These financial irregularities have sparked an ongoing FBI investigation, adding further scrutiny to Henyard's tumultuous tenure.
Former Chicago Mayor Lightfoot Exposes Dolton Mayor Henyard's Lavish Spending
Carmen Carlisle, a former assistant to Henyard, has also emerged as a whistleblower, accusing the mayor of "unethical and predatory behavior" and alleging that Henyard has used her position to enhance her influence at the expense of taxpayers.
Carlisle, who was appointed a trustee in May 2023, previously served as Henyard's assistant and claims that she initially trusted the administration's handling of financial matters. However, she raised concerns when excessive spending became apparent.
Former Chicago Mayor Lightfoot Exposes Dolton Mayor Henyard's Lavish Spending
Henyard, known for her lavish outfits and professional styling, has also faced questions regarding her involvement with the Tiffany A. Henyard Cares Foundation. Records show that the foundation was registered with the state on the same day that the township board voted to grant it $10,000.
Lightfoot's report also highlighted Henyard's misuse of village funds for a group bicycle ride to Springfield to support a breast cancer bill that was never formally filed.
Former Chicago Mayor Lightfoot Exposes Dolton Mayor Henyard's Lavish Spending
In a further twist, Henyard has been accused of sexual assault by an ally during a Las Vegas trip. The alleged victim claims to have been fired after speaking out about the incident.
Lewis A. Lacey, a former deputy chief of police of Dolton and an ally of Henyard, has been indicted by a federal grand jury on bankruptcy fraud charges. He is accused of concealing assets and income to avoid paying creditors and settling a lawsuit.
Former Chicago Mayor Lightfoot Exposes Dolton Mayor Henyard's Lavish Spending
In February, the FBI launched an investigation into Henyard's alleged misconduct after six individuals, including business owners, a former village employee, and public officials, reportedly provided testimony. In April, the FBI issued two federal subpoenas, seeking employment records and financial documents.
Henyard has remained defiant amidst the allegations, often using her golden microphone at meetings as a platform to downplay the controversies. However, the growing body of evidence and the ongoing FBI investigation continue to cast a shadow over her leadership.
