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Former Waldo Police Chief Accused of Unlawful Ticket Quota

Former Waldo Police Chief Mike Szabo and current Cpl. Kenneth Smith have been accused of misrepresentation, fraud and enforcing unlawful ticketing quotas among other allegations made by current Waldo police officers.

Szabo was accused of establishing an unlawful ticket quota, criminal and unethical activities, gross mismanagement, absence from work and failure to take leave when absent. The allegations go on to include failure to be within the city and fraudulent use of his vehicle's GPS to hide this failure.

Allegations were also made against Szabo's integrity, professionalism and ethical decision-making ability.

Smith is being accused of criminal and unethical activities, gross mismanagement, improper handling of evidence and theft while representing the city of Waldo at hotels and conferences.

"Because of the seriousness of the allegations, it would be inappropriate for me to address or comment on any specific allegations raised at the meeting," said Kim Worley, Waldo city manager, in a written statement.

Worley's statement also said the Waldo City Council has granted the city time to investigate the six allegations made against Szabo and Smith. The city is expected to report back with a plan of action once the investigation is complete.

Rochelle is a reporter for WUFT News who may be contacted by calling 352-392-6397 or emailing news @wuft.org
Erica is a reporter who can be contacted by calling 352-392-6397 or emailing news@wuft.org.