Photo courtesy of MNP.ca
A forensic audit of the Clearwater River Dene First Nation near La Loche has uncovered questionable spending in the millions of dollars over a six-year period from 2009 to 2014.
The audit was conducted by MNP Chartered Accountants.
The focus of the report was the band’s former manager, Jonny Cheecham. He received about $900,000 in compensation during the six-year period.
The audit found that he also owned, or had influence over nine companies, which supplied $9 million in services to the band over the six-year period.
The MNP report concludes Cheecham breached the band’s code of ethics, was in a conflict of interest, used band finances for the sale of motor vehicles, double or triple billed some contracts, or billed for service that was never done.
The report has been turned over to the band and council. Chief Teddy Clark says he is studying it, and will likely be in a position to respond tomorrow.
The forensic audit has also been discussed with the RCMP, although there is no word on whether an investigation will be launched.
No charges have been laid, and none of the allegations have been proven in court.