State police to conduct investigation into former Lakeville clerk-treasurer

Following a state audit, Indiana State Police will now begin investigating the alleged theft of close to $30,000 by former Lakeville clerk-treasurer Casey Grove. According to a news release sent Tuesday from the St. Joseph County prosecutor’s office, ISP will conduct the criminal investigation to determine whether enough evidence exists to prove criminal charges against 30-year-old Grove. The prosecutor’s office will then make a charging decision, the release said. The State Board of Accounts report released Monday revealed that between 2008 and 2009 Grove spent thousands of the town’s money on amusement park trips, cash advances and going to restaurants, including $14,000 in unauthorized ATM and debit card withdrawals. The town of Lakeville has sent a written demand to Grove, seeking repayment of the misappropriated funds, according to a news release by the town sent Tuesday. The release said the town is also seeking to recover its losses from Grove's bond and that the town is "committed to take all steps available ... to both recover the funds taken by Mr. Grove and to see that he is punished for his breach of trust." Grove initially was arrested in October after allegedly attacking his girlfriend. He was charged with misdemeanor residential entry and battery in the case. Prosecutors later added felony charges of possessing cocaine and heroin. Grove remains free on bond.