Court records detail charges against former International Motorsports Hall of Fame officials
TALLADEGA, Ala. (WBRC) — Court records made public Tuesday, April 7, shed more light on allegations involving two former officials with the International Motorsports Hall of Fame (IMHOF) in Talladega.
A Talladega County grand jury indicted former executive director Mike Raita and former accounts manager Karen Lakey, according to court records.
Raita indictment
WBRC learned Monday, April 6, that Raita was facing one charge of using an official position for personal gain.
According to the indictment, Raita allegedly advertised a 1968 Camaro SS Convertible Pace Car for sale.
The indictment alleges he then submitted the only bid, offering $15,000, and after winning the bid, caused the IMHOF Commission to pay about $22,917.12 to restore the vehicle.
Lakey indictment
Lakey was also indicted by a Talladega County grand jury. Her indictment alleges she used her position as accounts manager to take all or part of $159,477.55 for herself or a family member in an unauthorized manner.
A state audit of IMHOF made public last year alleges Lakey used funds for unauthorized retail purchases, wrote checks to herself that were cashed, and made payments toward a personal power bill.
According to Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall’s office, Lakey turned herself in to the Talladega County Sheriff’s Office.
If convicted, Lakey faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $30,000 fine for the use of public employment for personal gain.
Both Raita and Lakey are set for arraignment in May.
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