FBI joins Helms, vendor probe

also enter police

investigation

By BECKY BROOKS

Enterprise Editor

clydenews@bizwoh.rr.com

As the special state auditors unit sets up shop in Clyde, the local police department has asked the Federal Bureau of Investigation to join the probe centering around Clyde-Green Springs school superintendent Todd Helms and vendor purchases.

"We're now being assisted by the FBI, Postal Inspectors and the Auditor of State," Clyde Police Chief Bruce Gower said Tuesday.

The police chief said the FBI has services needed in the investigation and he asked for their assistance, which has been approved by the United States Attorney's Office.

"The auditors set up today," he said, noting he had not had an opportunity to meet with them since they arrived in Clyde Tuesday.

Gower said his office will be continuing the Helms investigation, but his priority this week will be assisting Sandusky County Sheriff's Office with arrangements and coverage following the death of Sheriff David Gangwer.

At its regular August meeting, the Clyde-Green Springs Exempted Village Board of Education approved sending Helms a letter and then conducting a hearing if evidence of criminal wrongdoing is discovered by the auditors' and police investigation.

If evidence warrants a hearing, the board president and vice president could determine that the superintendent could be fired and then ask the board to terminate the position.

Helms has been placed on paid administrative leave since July 28 and ordered not to return to school property by the school board.

Assistant Superintendent Greg Elchert has been acting superintendent since then.