Former Atkins city clerk ordered to pay $56K in restitution

ATKINS, Iowa (KCRG) - A former Atkins city clerk who pleaded guilty to a fraud investigation over misuse of city funds has been ordered to pay $56,000 in restitution to the city. Amber Bell, who was originally charged in November 2023, pleaded guilty to Felonious Misconduct in Office in April of this year. A 2023 audit found unpaid utility bills, employees improperly receiving bonuses, and personal purchases made on the city's credit card. Some of the flagged purchases included meals, alcohol, and purchases at Starbucks. Some of the initial charges, such as Ongoing Criminal Conduct - Unlawful Activity and Unauthorized Use of Credit Card have been dropped as part of Bell's plea agreement.