Audit claims Benton County conservation director bought fuel improperly

State auditors say the former director of the Benton County Conservation Department charged more than $2,700 worth of fuel for his personal truck to the county.

A report filed Monday by State Auditor David Vaudt says William Heber told investigators with the sheriff's department that he bought fuel for his own truck. He claims the pickup the county provided had mechanical problems, so he drove his own.

Auditors say Heber was not authorized to charge fuel for his personal vehicle to the county. The audit identified 45 improper fuel purchases in 2010 and 2011.

Heber, who was hired in November 2007 to oversee the county's 10 parks, was fired in November 2011.

A current telephone number could not be located. No charges have been filed, according to online court records.