A former Horry County employee alleges she was forced to resign after discovering that other county employees were using government money to buy “luxury items.”
Lauren DeMasi, an ex-Horry County procurement specialist, filed a federal wrongful discharge and defamation lawsuit against Horry County and six county employees March 31, 2025. The employees are administrator Barry Spivey, Myrtle Beach International Airport director Judi Olmstead, human resources assistant director Katie Badgett, procurement director Tammy Stevens, former procurement specialist April Kelly and current procurement specialist Tara Chestnut-Smith.
Horry County spokesperson Mikayla Moskov said the county does not comment on pending litigation in a text to The Sun News.
The lawsuit states while going over spending spreadsheets in late May or early June 2024, DeMasi found a number of purchases sent to employees’ homes, which were made using a county card. Purchases included golf equipment, TVs and other “luxury items.” It’s unclear how much was spent and who made the purchases.
“In Plaintiff’s experience, there would not be an approved reason for Defendant Horry County’s public funds to be used to purchase golf equipment or luxury goods for Defendant Horry County’s employees outside the normal procurement process,” the lawsuit said.
DeMasi discussed her findings at a June 4 team meeting with Horry County Director of Procurement Kimberly Massie, Horry County Procurement Deputy Director Jessica Williams...
Sahara Ray has now denied false claims she made against her fiancé during what she described as an 'episode' that has seen her enter hospital. The Australian model, whose father is surfing legend T...