Board discusses how sheriff spends fund

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - A heated debate between the Erie County Sheriff and the County Comptroller took center stage on Tuesday.

The Erie County Community Corrections Advisory Board met Tuesday afternoon over the recent audit that highlighted how the sheriff spends the Holding Center commissary.

Sheriff Tim Howard says he spent the money on new vehicles and other necessities. The comptroller raised concerns over the spending, even though the sheriff is allowed to spend the funds at his own discretion.

One member of the board also has concerns.

Rev. Eugene Pierce said, "It shouldn't be spent at his discretion. It should be for inmates programs. So, I speak today to say to you, it's not as simple as who's in charge, it's a matter of spending the money properly."

Sheriff Howard has strongly defended how he spent the commissary funds.