Audit finds Democratic staffer stole $12K

MEMPHIS, TN (WMC) - State democratic leaders claim a former staffer for Memphis representative Karen Camper stole more money from the House Democratic Caucus than initially believed.

An audit by a CPA firm found that Camper’s former aide, Derrick Tibbs, actually took more than 12,000 dollars by writing himself checks.

Camper was recently elected House Minority Leader.

She met with the House Democratic Caucus in Nashville Thursday to address the scandal.

"I did probably put too much trust in him than I should have. I'll take the hit on that,"said Camper.

Tibbs took the money from a fundraising account over a three year period.

"I was deeply hurt and saddened because he worked for me," said Camper.

Camper took heat from some lawmakers who wondered if the theft could have been prevented with more of her oversight.

NBC-affiliate WSMV in Nashville first reported on the resignation of Tibbs in early December.

At the time, representatives thought roughly 3,000 dollars was missing.

House democrats released a statement saying the caucus is pursuing a civil judgment against Tibbs.

If the money isn't returned in 11 months the matter could be referred for criminal prosecution.

Tibbs is a middle Tennessee resident.

He indicated when he resigned that he would pay restitution.

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