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November trial set for Martinsville police chief

Matthew Long faces two felony charges
Posted at 11:18 AM, Apr 24, 2019
and last updated 2019-04-24 11:31:47-04

MARTINSVILLE — The Morgan County Courthouse and the headquarters of the Martinsville Police Department are just one block apart.

In November, Martinsville Police Chief Matthew Long will be at the courthouse in Superior Court One.

Long will be on trial, starting November 20, after his arrest in February on two felony charges — Official Misconduct and Theft.

Information from an audit by the State Board of Accounts show Long received $8,316 in excess overtime and sick time which he was not entitled to.

An investigation by the Indiana State Police found Long had added hours to his "sick bank" in 2016 and 17 and received $1,530 in sick pay he was not entitled to.

The investigation also showed Long received $6,786 in overtime pay he didn't earn.

The State Board of Accounts criticized the city's internal control system, including the lack of oversight of the police chief.

John Kautzman, Long's attorney, issued a statement following the chief's arrest, saying Long denies the allegations.

"At no time did Chief Long intentionally engage in any criminal or knowingly improper conduct," Kautzman said. "We look forward to a thorough review of the true facts of this case."

Rodger Wiltermood is the interim police chief in Martinsville.