Bay County Clerk Takes Over Visit Panama City Beach Finances Amid Fraud Allegations

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Bay County Clerk Assumes Financial Oversight of Visit Panama City Beach Amid Fraud Allegations

In response to alleged financial misconduct, the Bay County Clerk's office takes control of Visit PCB's finances.

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The Bay County Clerk of Court has assumed financial oversight of Visit Panama City Beach (Visit PCB) following the arrest of Aaron Lee, the organization's Vice President of Administration, on charges of grand theft and fraudulent use of a credit card.

Lee is accused of misappropriating nearly $1 million through unauthorized transactions on a company-issued American Express card, with only approximately $58,000 of these expenses recorded in the organization's financial system.

In light of these allegations, Clerk of Court Bill Kinsaul stated that his office will now oversee all financial operations of Visit Panama City Beach and and the other entities under the Tourist Development Council (TDC) to ensure uniform oversight and prevent future misconduct.

The 3 TDC's are Destination Panama City, the Mexico Beach Community Development Council, and Visit Panama City Beach.

Visit PCB President and CEO Dan Rowe has taken a leave of absence to allow for a thorough investigation and to restore public trust in the organization.

Additionally, the organization has engaged a third-party auditor to conduct a forensic examination of its financial records, aiming to identify any further discrepancies and implement stronger financial controls.

These measures reflect a concerted effort by Bay County officials to address the situation and reinforce the integrity of the county's tourism management.

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