Editor’s note: This story is the first in a series recollecting how the Columbus Consolidated Government wound up in the midst of a comprehensive investigation into city finances, with several city officials investigated and some charged with criminal offenses.
This year, former Columbus city manager Isaiah Hugley was fired. There have been two arrests related to criminal charges from an investigation into the city’s finance department, and outside attorneys have been hired as the threat of a racial discrimination lawsuit looms.
A 118-page administrative report from the Muscogee County Sheriff’s Office, filled with transcripts of interviews with city officials, local activists and whistleblowers details allegations of toxic work environments, potential cover-ups and pressure to present misleading results to the Columbus Council…