Former Skagit Transit CFO Christopher Stamey claims he was fired after coming forward with his findings.
MOUNT VERNON, Wash. — Christopher Stamey has dedicated more than three decades of his life to public service in Skagit County, and he takes his responsibilities seriously.
"Ethics are of the highest importance to me," Stamey said. "I right wrongs and bring transparency especially to issues of public funds."
That commitment to transparency is what Stamey says led him to discover what he considered extravagant expenditures at Skagit Transit, where he served as Chief Financial Officer. "You should always do the right thing," he explained, describing his approach to the situation he uncovered.
According to Stamey, Skagit Transit CEO Crystle Stidham began charging custom furniture for her office, flying first class on work trips, and staying in expensive hotel rooms — all without proper authorization and all funded by taxpayer money. Stamey alleges that Stidham even forged his signature to authorize these expenditures.
"I've never seen that in my 35 years," he said of the alleged misconduct.
When Stamey confronted his boss about these concerns, he said he was placed on administrative leave and eventually fired. The situation became even more troubling, according to Stamey, when he was offered three separate payoffs to not return to work.
"Public employees like me shouldn't have to choose between their integrity and their careers," he said. "This is extreme retaliation."
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