Breaking News

November 29, 2007

Update: County official says discipline possible against employee who used debit card at strip club

Update: County official says discipline possible against employee who used debit card at strip club

WILKES-BARRE – Luzerne County Commissioner Chairman Greg Skrepenak said county officials are working to identify who put a $71 charge from a strip club on a county debit card and will take disciplinary action if it’s determined the expense was for alcohol or some other inappropriate expense.

Deputy Warden Sam Hyder on Thursday acknowledged his county debit card was used to make a charge at the Saphire Gentleman’s Club while he and several others were attending a conference in Las Vegas in December 2006.

Hyder insisted he did not personally make the charge, but he refused to identify who did. He said he paid the $71 back, in cash, to chief clerk/administrator Sam Guesto this morning because the card was his responsibility.

Skrepenak said county officials are still investigating the matter and have not yet determined whether the charge was inappropriate, noting it could have been used for food.

A woman who answered the phone at the Saphire Thursday morning said the establishment does not sell full meals, only finger food that is available in the evening.

Skrepenak said he does not want to rush to judgment. If it is determined the expense was for alcohol or other services offered at the establishment disciplinary action would be taken.

For further updates, check back with www.timesleader.com

Tweet	Follow @TLnews