MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — Former Manatee County Administrator Scott Hopes is officially charged with three felonies, the State Attorney's office announced Thursday.
Court documents show Hopes is charged with notary fraud, grand theft in the third degree and fraudulent use of public records — all third-degree felonies.
The first of three charges filed by State Attorney Ed Brodsky alleges that Hopes falsely acknowledged an instrument or certificate while serving as a public notary. The second charge alleges Hopes unlawfully obtained between $10,000 and $20,000 from Manatee County.
The final charge claims Hopes knowingly falsified public records to facilitate in committing a felony.
Hopes turned himself in to the Manatee County Sheriff's Office on Thursday afternoon. His bond was set at $2,500 per charge, for a total of $7,500.
Hopes became the subject of an investigation by the Manatee County Sheriff's Office last February after multiple complaints were received against him. He resigned from his position that same month.
Charges were recommended against Hopes in November of last year. Manatee County deputies confirmed then that the complaints were in reference to Hopes' county-issued cell phone and tablet.