Audit: Former Ontario County Clerk embezzled over $450k of funds

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) — An audit has accused the late Ontario County Clerk Matthew Hoose of embezzling nearly a half-million dollars.

The investigation began after the Department of State noticed delayed reports and payments from Hoose.

In February 2023, the Ontario County Board of Supervisors passed a no-confidence vote against Hoose , and announced an independent audit would be initiated. Hoose passed away a few days later, which delayed the audit to March.

The Bonadio Group was hired to conduct the audit. They confirmed not only that Hoose was delinquent in filing reports and payments, but he stole over $453,000 over a period of ten years.

Investigators said the thefts began in August 2012 — eight months after Hoose took office. It was alleged that Hoose put received checks into the DMV deposit and removed an offsetting amount of cash to ensure the deposit was correct. This practice continued until his death in 2023.

After the New York State Police launched an investigation into the matter, it was determined that Hoose acted alone and the employees of the County Clerk’s Office were not involved. The County says it has no legal way at this time to recover the stolen money.

The full report can be read below:

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