Seward County’s sheriff misspent federal money, the government says. For months, he didn’t tell county leaders. - Flatwater Free Press

Seward County Sheriff Misused Federal Funds, Government Reports

In June, Seward County Sheriff Mike Vance informed county board members about serious financial troubles. He warned that the Sheriff’s Office was facing a budget shortfall and might be unable to pay three deputies within weeks without county assistance.

During his appeal, Vance attributed the delay in funding to the Biden administration. At a later meeting, he expressed confidence that the "Big Beautiful Bill" would unblock federal funds for Seward County, stating,

“… They have to give it to us. I’m not worried about them not giving it to us.”

However, what Vance did not disclose to county leaders was that the government had recently stopped allowing the sheriff's office to use federal funds due to misuse.

Financial Impact and Lack of Transparency

Context of Federal Funding Issues

Federal funding plays a crucial role in supporting the operations of local law enforcement agencies like Seward County Sheriff's Office. Mismanagement or misuse of these funds can lead to strict government interventions.

“The government had recently halted the sheriff’s use of federal dollars after a U.S.”
Summary

The Seward County Sheriff concealed the halt of federal funds due to misuse while blaming the federal administration for funding delays, revealing a concerning lack of transparency in local law enforcement finances.

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Flatwater Free Press Flatwater Free Press — 2025-11-05