Hillsborough GOP Party Treasurer Charged With Grand Theft: Sheriff

BRANDON, FL — The Hillsborough County Republican Party treasurer faces charges after illegally transferring funds and writing himself personal checks from the organization’s business account, authorities said.

Patrick Bailey, 50, was arrested Thursday in the 300 block of Lake Drive in Brandon, according to a Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office news release.

Bailey was charged with false entry in books of business entity and grand theft third degree ($10,000 - $20,000), the agency said.

He wrote himself checks from the party’s business account totaling $14,400 and electronically transferred the funds to his personal bank account, investigators learned.

"When someone exploits their position to take what doesn't belong to them, it hurts the organization and the people who trusted them," Sheriff Chad Chronister said. "Our detectives worked diligently to uncover the truth and hold this individual accountable. We hope this serves as a reminder that trust and integrity are the foundations of our community, and we are here to protect them."