I believe in the "checks and balances" form of gov`t WHICH incidently is designed (when even half heartedly USED) to PREVENT exactly this sort of GROSS abuse of PUBLIC TRUST. Unless there was about complete total INCOMPETANCE from top to bottom in the local government (mayor, council persons, local representatives, auditors, trustees, ect) someone else WAS "in" on this...and again, unless those responsible can promptly REPAY every penny WITH INTEREST, well then, get convicted, have your 2 appeals in 5 yrs, and upon losing them, it`s DYING TIME...