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Written by: A. Smith
Published July 11, 2025 @ 9:01 AM ET
TROUP COUNTY, Ga. – A former Troup County payroll manager has been charged with stealing more than $500,000 in taxpayer funds by redirecting paychecks meant for former county employees into personal bank accounts, federal prosecutors announced Wednesday.
Wesleigh Gaddy, 35, of Hogansville, faces one count of theft from a program receiving federal funds. Authorities say she exploited her position and access to confidential payroll information to carry out the scheme over a two-year period.
The investigation began after a Troup County sheriff’s deputy reported a discrepancy with his paycheck. Although no longer employed with the county, the deputy noticed several direct deposits made in his name that he had never received. The discovery prompted a federal investigation by the FBI and IRS.
A review of payroll records revealed that between March 2023 and May 2025, more than $500,000 was issued in the names of over 75 former county employees. Prosecutors said the funds were deposited into just three bank accounts, one of which was allegedly controlled by Gaddy.
During an interview with law enforcement, Gaddy admitted to transferring the stolen money into her personal accounts, according to court documents.
“Gaddy allegedly stole more than half a million taxpayer dollars by exploiting the personal information of dozens of former Troup County employees,” said U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg. “Such corruption is outrageous, and our office is committed to prosecuting anyone who manipulates a position of public service for unlawful private benefit.”
“As a public servant, Gaddy used her entrusted position to steal the identities of county employees to access taxpayers’ money for her benefit,” said Demetrius Hardeman, special agent in charge of IRS Criminal Investigation’s Atlanta Field Office. “IRS Criminal Investigation special agents will continue investigating public officials and servants who steal from the taxpayers they are supposed to serve.”
“Misappropriating public funds is a betrayal of the public trust and authorities granted with a role of public service,” said Paul Brown, special agent in charge of the FBI’s Atlanta office. “The FBI is committed to holding those accountable who abuse this trust and their position for their own gain.”