CHARLESTON, W.Va. — A former Monongalia County chief deputy assessor owes the West Virginia Ethics Commission more than $13,000.
An investigation by the commission found William Perry violated rules prohibiting public officials from using public resources and time for personal activates.
Perry, an appointed employee of the assessor’s office from 1989 to 2010, is said to have used his work computer, email and title while inquiring about real estate, to correspond with Chinese companies about the purchase of products like folding chairs, auto parts and grave monuments and to communicate with vendors about the purchase and manufacturing of flags for resale.
The ethics commission investigation began in 2009. According to documents from the commission, Perry indicated the realty inquires were in relation to his job as chief deputy. He is on record stating the product inquiries were part of his job to review inventory costs for businesses. Both claims were disputed during testimony before the commission. Perry also told the commission his inquiry into flags was for a fundraiser for the Sons of Italy.
In a decision Thursday, the commission found Perry used his public computer, internet and email for private activities and his actions constituted a material violation of the Ethics Act.
While no purchases or financial gain were verified in the investigation, the commission concluded Perry was a public official who crossed the line using public resources and time for personal activities.