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Experts: Small Governments Feel Effects of Corruption

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COLUMBUS, OHIO (AP) — Ohio’s state auditor says there’s no statistically significant proof public corruption occurs more frequently in smaller communities amid a rash of recent criminal charges against employees but the effects in those communities are felt more profoundly than in big cities.

State Auditor Dave Yost tells The Columbus Dispatch smaller governments often have a smaller pool of people to draw from, requiring employees to share duties.

The Ohio Municipal League says small towns sometimes face uphill battles because of tight budgets and employees working for little pay.

The group says these officials often do the work because they love and support their communities.

Mount Sterling village Administrator Joe Johnson and former Alexandria Fiscal Officer Laura VanScoy Andrews were recently charged with theft in office, among other charges.

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