Four people, including a Bettendorf man and the former director of the Iowa Film Office, now face felony criminal charges in connection with state tax credits issued by the Iowa Film Office.
According to Iowa Attorney General Tom Miller those charged Monday (1/10) in Polk County Court were:
Chad Witter, 37, of Bettendorf, IA - Two counts of fraudulent practice in the first degree (Class C felony), two counts of theft in the first degree (Class C felony), and one count ongoing criminal conduct (Class B Felony). Click here to download details of the charges.
Thomas Wheeler, 42, of Indianola, IA - three counts of felonious misconduct in office (Class D felony), three counts of fraudulent practice in the first degree (Class C felony), and one county conspiracy (a Class D felony).Click here to download details of the charges.
Bruce Heppner-Elgin, 42, of Washington, IA - two counts of theft in the first degree (Class C Felony), two counts of fraudulent practice in the first degree (Class C Felony), and one count ongoing criminal conduct (Class B Felony).Click here to download details of the charges.
Dennis Brouse, 60, of Plattsmouth, NE - one count fraudulent practice in the first degree (Class C Felony), one count theft in the first degree (Class C Felony), and one count ongoing criminal conduct (Class B Felony).Click here to download details of the charges.
According to the attorney general's office, convictions on felonies could result in fines, plus the following maximum prison sentences: Class B Felony, 25 years; Class C Felony, 10 years; Class D Felony, 5 years. The defendants are scheduled to appear for arraignment January 18 in Polk County District Court.
The Iowa Film Office criminal investigation is ongoing, according to the attorney general.
