The small town of Dalton, Illinois, is buzzing with drama as the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) launches a criminal investigation targeting the town’s mayor, Tiffany Henyard. Known to some as the “super mayor,” Henyard is now at the center of multiple controversies that have left the town divided and the authorities on high alert.
The saga unfolded as the FBI conducted a raid on Dalton Village Hall, prompting shockwaves throughout the community. Allegations against Henyard include embezzlement of town funds and even Mafia-style intimidation tactics. Reports claim that Mayor Henyard has been operating in a manner reminiscent of a mafia boss, allegedly misusing taxpayer money for personal gain while intimidating those who oppose her.
One of the most startling accusations involves an incident where a retired sheriff deputy, who is also a 30-year veteran trustee, claimed that a caravan of police cars showed up at her residence. The officers, sirens blaring, questioned her tenants about her whereabouts. This incident, coupled with reports of gunfire that resulted in several cars being damaged, has left the community reeling. The victim, a respected figure in the community, recounted how rounds were fired into her yard, with some of the bullets striking her tenants’ vehicles. These events paint a grim picture of alleged harassment and intimidation tactics aimed at silencing critics.
Adding to the scandal is the claim that Mayor Henyard has been involved in the embezzlement of up to $7 million. Allegations suggest that she has spent exorbitant amounts on personal shopping sprees, including one instance where $43,000 was allegedly spent in a single outing. Further reports accuse Henyard of utilizing taxpayer funds for first-class travel, expensive meals, and donations to a questionable cancer charity.
The FBI’s involvement came after the agency issued subpoenas demanding a vast array of documents from Henyard and the township. The documents sought include personnel files, wage and tax documents, time and attendance records, contracts, and checks written to cash from Henyard’s various endeavors. These include her restaurant, property management company, political action committee, and charity. Additionally, the FBI has requested township financial documents such as budgets, payroll records, and ordinances covering credit card purchases, expense reports, and security details.
Former FBI agent Ross Rice commented on the breadth of the investigation, noting that the subpoenas are broad in scope, covering multiple people and entities. This, he suggests, indicates serious allegations of wrongdoing that the FBI is determined to uncover.
The controversy surrounding Mayor Henyard has been brewing for some time. In March 2024, allegations surfaced that she misused taxpayer money to fund personal expenses. Despite a unanimous vote by the Dalton Village Board to open an investigation into her spending, Henyard vetoed the resolution, dismissing it as a result of personal attacks and one-sided narratives. At a village board meeting, she stated, “As you can see, our village, our community, myself, we are under attack. It’s a shame that people can come to meetings and just tell one side of the stories and not get the entire side of both stories.”
Henyard’s use of the local police as her personal security has also been a point of contention. Reports indicate that she has spent $1 million on police detail, hindering their ability to patrol the streets and keep the community safe. Critics argue that her actions have compromised the police department’s capacity to serve the community effectively.
As the FBI’s investigation continues, the residents of Dalton are left to grapple with the reality of the situation. The allegations against Mayor Henyard are serious and, if proven true, could have far-reaching implications for the town and its governance. The unfolding drama in Dalton is a stark reminder of the impact of corruption at the local government level and the importance of accountability and transparency in public office.
