Dolton Mayor faces backlash as former Chicago Mayor hired to investigate alleged misconduct

Just a week after dealing with a chaotic town hall meeting, Dolton Mayor Tiffany Henyard faces a new challenge that could potentially end her political career. The residents of Dolton, Illinois, have expressed their anger and frustration towards the embattled mayor, leading to significant developments in the ongoing controversy.

The Village of Dolton voted decisively on Monday to bring in former Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot as a “Special Investigator” to probe into the alleged financial mismanagement and spending issues under Mayor Henyard’s leadership. Lightfoot's role will involve delving into potential state and federal violations, an action that reflects the severity of the accusations against Mayor Henyard. She is set to begin her investigation on Tuesday and will be compensated at a rate of $400 per hour.

Residents' Demand for Change

Former Mayor Lightfoot acknowledged the overwhelming demand for a change in leadership expressed by the residents of Dolton. She pledged to follow the facts diligently and present a comprehensive report at the conclusion of the investigation. The report's findings will likely have a substantial impact on the future course of action regarding Mayor Henyard.

Furthermore, the trustees revisited crucial issues that Mayor Henyard had previously vetoed, signifying a significant shift in the Village's governance. The discussion also centered on the payment of outstanding invoices and vendors who have yet to receive their dues from the Village of Dolton, underscoring the financial turbulence the town is currently facing.

Controversies and Allegations

The recent meeting was conducted at the Park District building due to its non-official nature and to accommodate the residents’ overwhelming interest. The controversies surrounding Mayor Henyard range from allegations of weaponizing the police for personal vendettas to extravagant spending with public funds, such as trips to destinations like Las Vegas. These accusations have cast a shadow of doubt over her administration and have triggered formal investigations by federal agencies.

Legal Battle and FBI Investigation

Notably, a former employee has filed a lawsuit against Mayor Henyard, accusing her of unjust practices, including being locked out of her office, denial of rightful payment, and wrongful termination. Simultaneously, the FBI has reportedly initiated an inquiry into the potential misuse of the local police force under Mayor Henyard’s directives, adding another layer of complexity to the ongoing saga.