ST. LOUIS — A new report from Missouri State Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick exposes serious financial issues in Washington County. It focuses on the actions of the County Collector’s office under Carla Zettler.
The audit found over $107,000 missing from property sales between 2018 and 2021. Zettler allegedly made improper payments to office staff and her daughter-in-law, who served as County Trustee. She’s also accused of moving county money to her personal bank account and making questionable purchases.
The report highlights several other issues in the office. These include giving out improper employee bonuses, not following state laws for handling money, poor record-keeping, and mishandling tax protests. All of these problems contributed to the office receiving the worst possible rating: “poor.”
Zettler has been removed from office and now faces criminal charges. The current County Collector is also in trouble for not filing required reports. Auditor Fitzpatrick urges county officials to work with law enforcement on this case. He emphasizes the need for better financial management in Washington County going forward.
