WASHINGTON, Ga. – An employee of the Washington Police Department is free on bail after being arrested for embezzlement of city funds totaling more than $40,000.

Gary Nicholson, special agent in-charge of the regional office in Thomson, identified the suspect as Tammy Dale Land, of Washington. Ms. Land has been charged with a felony count of theft by taking, Agent Nicholson said.

She was taken to the Wilkes County Jail in Washington where she since has posted bond.

Agent Nicholson said his office was contacted by Washington Police Chief Mike Davis to investigate after a routine audit revealed a large amount of cash missing from the collection of traffic fines and other items.

The case remains under investigation by GBI Special Agent Tony Williamson.