Richmond County CAO Warren Olsen resigns after spending scandals

Richmond County Warden Victor David says CAO Warren Olsen has resigned.

The resignation is due to take effect onOct. 31.

David saidthe municipality has been negotiating with Olsen about his departure. The wardenwould not provide any details about those negotiations.

• Forensic audit calls out Richmond County CAO, some councillors
• Nova Scotia ombudsman slams Richmond County officials for 'self-serving' expenses

Olsen's travel and expense claims were singled out andheavily criticized in a forensic audit and in an ombudsman's report into Richmond County's finances.

In one case, he charged $582 on his municipal credit card for back-to-back nights atadult entertainment clubs in Houston.An expense claim filed by Olsenlisted one of thoseevenings as areception/meal.

The reports also said Olsen and former warden Steve Sampson spent public money on alcohol and questionabletravel and foodexpenses. According to theombudsman,Olsenbought alcohol to keep in his office, which councillors drank after meetings.

Olsen has been on medical leave for substance abuse treatment. CBC News has reached out to Olsen for comment but he has notreturned calls.

• Richmond County CAO takes leave after spending revelations