VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. — The man looking to win Volusia County's highest public office is being investigated by the state for breaking campaign finance laws.
Carl Persis is running for Volusia County chairman. WFTV's Lori Brown looked into the accusations against him.
The Florida Elections Commission is investigating three complaints that long-time politician Persis violated campaign finance laws.
"I'm concerned that someone running for the highest office in Volusia County has consistently violated Florida statutes," said community activist Bill Tavernier.
Tavernier discovered the alleged violations and filed the complaints.
"I felt an obligation. I didn't know what candidate I was going to support for Volusia County chair. He made my decision easy," he said.
Tavernier is now supporting Persis's opponent, political newcomer Jason Davis.
The FEC mailed out certified letters to Persis, telling him of the state's investigation.
"I believe they are all politically motivated," Persis told WFTV.
Among the allegations, Persis's campaign "accepted contributions in excess of the limits" and "falsely reported or deliberately failed to include information" on finance reports.
Persis admits he made some "clerical" errors.
"They will find no willful intent on my part for wrong doing," he said.
Persis is a seasoned politician. He's been elected four times, once to the Ormond Beach city commission, once for Ormond Beach mayor and twice to the Volusia County council.
WFTV found out Persis had to correct errors on his finance reports nine times.
"Do I want this person in charge of a half billion dollars plus budget in this county?" said Tavernier.
The elections commission has not yet ruled on any of the three complaints.
WFTV
