BALDWIN, Ga. — The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) has confirmed an active investigation into a City of Baldwin employee. Sources close to the matter have identified the suspect as the city’s staff accountant, Whitni Davis, following an unusual incident involving a high-value real estate transaction.
Details of investigation
For weeks, reports have circulated regarding an internal probe at Baldwin City Hall. Today, new details emerged alleging that Davis attempted to leverage her position and access to city accounts to acquire a $1.7 million home. According to sources, Davis used city financial accounts to appear to be her own personal assets when making an offer on the property.
The investigation further reveals that Davis allegedly went so far as to post earnest money using these city-linked accounts to secure the deal.
The “Prank” Defense
When confronted regarding the alleged illegal use of municipal accounts for a private real estate transaction, Davis reportedly claimed the entire situation was a “prank.” However, she has not specified who the prank was intended for or how the unauthorized use of public funds served that purpose.
Official response
When asked about the prank investigation, Baldwin Police Chief Chris Jones said, “The case is under active investigation and has been turned over to the GBI for follow-up.”
On February 11, the Baldwin Police Department asked the GBI to “investigate an incident involving a City of Baldwin employee,” according to Sara Lue, Director of Public and Government Affairs.
While the City of Baldwin’s official website still lists Davis as the “staff accountant,” sources confirm she has been placed on unpaid administrative leave. Now Georgia made several attempts to reach out to Davis for a comment, with no response.
This news is a significant blow to the city’s administration, marking the second investigation into city personnel in recent days. As first reported by Now Georgia, an investigation is currently underway into the recent rash of resignations by Baldwin police officers.
