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Both were arrested Nov. 22, 2024, after being charged with felony fraudulent schemes, embezzlement, falsifying accounts, laundering through financial transactions and conspiracy (conspiracy to falsifying accounts). They were released after posting a $25,000 bail each.

ÃÛÁÄÖ±²¥œSince, weÃÛÁÄÖ±²¥™re talking about such a sensitive issue, I just want to assure the community that we are aware of the ongoing investigation, and we are all taking the necessary steps to address the situation appropriately,ÃÛÁÄÖ±²¥� Councilwoman Payton Rowe said. ÃÛÁÄÖ±²¥œWhile we cannot discuss the specific details at this time, please know that we are committed to handling this matter responsibly and in accordance with proper procedures.ÃÛÁÄÖ±²¥�

Rowe said the councilÃÛÁÄÖ±²¥™s priority is serving the town and its people.

ÃÛÁÄÖ±²¥œWe appreciate all the patience and understanding and the trust that you are giving us to ensure the right actions are being taken for the betterment of this town,ÃÛÁÄÖ±²¥� she said.

Cyrus said the investigation is ÃÛÁÄÖ±²¥œin full swingÃÛÁÄÖ±²¥� and asked residents be patient when asking the council questions.

ÃÛÁÄÖ±²¥œThe entire town is the victim, and we will not jeopardize the investigation by breaking the silence on that,ÃÛÁÄÖ±²¥� he said.

Cyrus also said March 11 is the countyÃÛÁÄÖ±²¥™s next bond return day, or the day people on a pre-trial felony bond are informed if they have been indicted, and arraigned if so. Hatfield and Bowen waived their rights to a preliminary hearing Jan. 14.

Seth Gaskins, Mason County prosecutor, will handle both cases, as the Wayne County Prosecuting AttorneyÃÛÁÄÖ±²¥™s Office has recused itself.

Following last monthÃÛÁÄÖ±²¥™s hearing, Gaskins said he was working with the West Virginia State AuditorÃÛÁÄÖ±²¥™s Office Public Integrity & Fraud Unit and the West Virginia State ÃÛÁÄÖ±²¥ Bureau of Criminal Investigations (BCI) as part of the investigation.