JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – A Jackson city employee has been fired after city leaders discovered irregularities with benefits within the Human Resources Department.

Jackson Mayor Chokwe A. Lumumba announced on Monday, June 17 that HR Director Toya Martin discovered the misappropriation of funds.

The Jackson Police Department (JPD) was notified about the irregularities. During an investigation, Lumumba said additional irregularities were discovered.

The mayor did not announce the amount of funds that were taken, but he did say that it was a felony amount and an ‘alarming amount.’ The city notified the Attorney General’s Office and the State Auditor’s Office about the fraud.

An unidentified city employee was later terminated, according to the mayor. He believes the fraud has been going on for several years. There is no information on whether other employees were involved in the fraud.

Lumumba said the funds were supposed to be used for health insurance for current and former employees. The mayor said the former employees, who believe their benefits were impacted, should contact the city at 601-960-1234.

The mayor said he expects criminal charges to be filed in the case.