Victor Hill: Clayton County grand jury indicts former sheriff

A Clayton County grand jury indicted former sheriff Victor Hill on 37-counts including theft by taking, making false statements and violation of the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act, wrapping up a nearly year-long investigation.

A hearing was immediately held for Hill where a judge set bond at $50,000 and ordered the former sheriff to surrender his passport, remain in Georgia and not to contact any witnesses.

Channel 2 investigative reporter Mark Winne talked to Hill before he addressed the grand jury panel.

”Looking forward to defending myself. I think everyone knows it’s politically motivated and we’re ready to get back on the campaign trail, Hill said.

”Did you break the law? Winne asked.

”Absolutely not, Hill responded.

Leaving the courtroom after the hearing Hill yelled to Winne, "I'm still running for sheriff."

The grand jury started an investigation into Hill in April and has subpoenaed documents from the Georgia Govement Transparency and Campaign Finance Commission. Hill received a subpoena to appear before the grand jury in November.

Prosecutors finished their presentation to the grand jury on Wednesday afteoon. Hill then had the option to make a final statement before the panel voted on the charges.

Victor Hill being taken into custody

Sources told Winne the special grand jury looked at the use of county credit cards, the handling of campaign finances, if there was personal travel using county equipment, if county employees engaged in campaign or personal business for Hill.

Hill is running for sheriff again, a seat he lost to current Sheriff Kem Kimbrough in 2008.

”It is not politically motivated. It is all about accountability and the integrity of the offices we hold, Kimbrough told Winne.

Hill's attoey, Steve Fry, said Hill will fight the charges and Hill has not violated the law.