A federal subpoena has been directed towards Tiffany Henyard, the self-proclaimed “super mayor,” as part of a criminal investigation linked to her removal from office. This legal action took place on February 25, the same day Henyard, a Democrat, faced a significant defeat in Dolton, Illinois’ mayoral primary. The investigation is connected to a development project involving land allegedly once owned by Henyard’s boyfriend.
The subpoena seeks a comprehensive array of records dating back to 2014, including citations, code violations, emails, phone calls, and text messages between property owners, tenants, and village personnel. These records also involve correspondence between property owners, tenants, and Dolton village personnel, including Henyard’s boyfriend, Kamal Woods. This subpoena marks another episode in the ongoing federal probe into Henyard’s activities during her tenure as village mayor and township supervisor.
During Henyard’s time in office, the Chicago suburb of Dolton has seen multiple subpoenas due to her contentious administration. In April, another subpoena demanded personnel and disciplinary files for nearly 30 individuals, highlighting the extent of the investigation. Further scrutiny arose with requests for documents related to indicted village administrator Keith Freeman, who is accused of making false statements and concealing income in his bankruptcy petition.
Henyard’s administration has been criticized for alleged financial mismanagement, leading to her being ousted with nearly 88% of the vote in the recent primary. Trustee Jason House, a former ally of Henyard, campaigned on a platform of transparency, promising to restore accountability in Dolton’s government. “Not only is Ms. Henyard depriving the public of what they deserve, it’s costing the village money,” House stated on Election Day.
The controversies surrounding Henyard have included accusations of excessive spending since she assumed office in 2021. Former Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot was hired last year to investigate Henyard’s financial practices in Dolton. The investigation revealed a shift from a $5.6 million surplus in 2022 to a $3.6 million deficit in 2024, prompting concerns over dubious credit card purchases and insufficient financial oversight.
Henyard also faces accusations of civil rights violations and numerous lawsuits stemming from alleged corruption. Her scandal-plagued administration gained further notoriety in January when a video emerged of her engaging in a brawl during a Thornton Township Board of Trustees meeting. The altercation occurred after activist Jedidiah Brown criticized Henyard for her performance as mayor.
Brown’s remarks were scathing as he confronted Henyard about her handling of Dolton’s finances and her response to Lightfoot’s report. “You’ve been a half-a– mayor,” Brown asserted during the public comment section, questioning Henyard’s leadership. The meeting escalated into chaos, with Woods and Brown getting into a physical altercation as others joined the fray.
The incident highlighted the tumultuous environment during Henyard’s tenure, drawing widespread attention. Security personnel struggled to separate the crowd as tensions flared. Fox News Digital reached out to Woods’ attorney, Beau Brindley, and the village of Dolton for their comments on the situation.
The federal investigation, along with the internal conflicts, paints a challenging picture for the village of Dolton. As authorities continue to delve into the activities of Henyard’s administration, the community is left grappling with the aftermath. The series of legal and personal confrontations underscores the need for accountability and transparency in governance.
The ongoing scrutiny comes amid growing frustration among Dolton residents over Henyard’s leadership. The legal battles and public disputes have marred her administration, raising questions about the future direction of the village. As the investigation unfolds, Dolton’s residents await a resolution to the controversies that have plagued their community.
Henyard’s removal from office was a decisive statement from voters seeking change. The significant margin in the mayoral primary reflects the community’s desire for a new direction. Trustee Jason House’s commitment to transparency and accountability aims to rebuild trust within Dolton’s government.
The challenges facing Dolton are not unique, as many communities grapple with issues of governance and accountability. The federal probe into Henyard’s administration serves as a reminder of the importance of ethical leadership. As Dolton navigates this period of transition, the focus remains on ensuring a fair and just administration for its residents.
The community’s response to the unfolding investigation will shape Dolton’s future. Residents and officials alike must work together to address the issues that have come to light. The path forward requires a commitment to restoring integrity and trust in Dolton’s leadership.
