Former Hickman Co. Maintenance Director Indicted for Theft
Investigation Reveals Improper Spending at Lowe’s and Local Hardware Store
An investigation by the Tennessee Comptroller’s Office has resulted in the indictment of James “Randy” Lynn, the former Maintenance Director for Hickman County government.
Investigators determined that Lynn misappropriated county funds totaling at least $29,960.46 by using the county’s Lowe’s Home Improvement credit card and the county’s charge account at a local hardware store to purchase items for his personal benefit.
Lynn’s theft occurred between July 2017 and March 11, 2022, when his employment was terminated. The investigation began after Hickman County officials reported questionable purchases.
Some of the items that Lynn purchased for his own benefit included an electric range and convection oven, a Maytag washer and dryer, a Dyson vacuum, a lawn mower, Christmas décor, power tools, and more than $17,000 in large-gauge copper wire.
Investigators noted that on 14 occasions, Lynn sold copper to a recycling center as scrap, often within days of purchasing large-gauge copper wire at the local hardware store. Lynn received payments totaling $3,782.05 for the copper wire he sold to the recycling center.
Additionally, investigators identified $4,578.69 in questionable purchases made by Lynn including window blinds, candles, and toilet paper. Investigators were unable to determine if these items were for the exclusive use and benefit of the county.
Based upon this investigation, in December 2023, James “Randy” Lynn was indicted by the Hickman County Grand Jury for one count of theft over $10,000, one count of fraudulent use of a credit card over $2,500, and one count of official misconduct.
“County officials must ensure they are taking time to review invoices and supporting documentation for purchases,” said Comptroller Jason Mumpower. “Careful review would have noted that items were being purchased that had no legitimate county purpose, such as a fireplace screen, a bathtub faucet, and a baby safety gate.”
To view the investigative report, go to tncot.cc/doireports. To view a map depicting Comptroller investigations, go to tncot.cc/mappinginvestigations
If you suspect fraud, waste, or abuse of public money in Tennessee, call the Comptroller’s toll-free hotline at 800.232.5454, or file a report online at: tncot.cc/fraud. Follow us on X/Twitter @TNCOT and Instagram @tncot
Media contact: John Dunn, Director of Communications, 615.401.7755 or john.dunn@cot.tn.gov
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