Bonner County Fairgrounds investigation  underway

November 14, 2022

A criminal investigation regarding the potential misuse of public funds is ongoing at the Bonner County Fairgrounds. This issue was brought to light by a fair employee and members of the fair board. As a result of allegations made to Bonner County Prosecutor Louis Marshall against fair director Darcey Smith, who passed away October 31. Chief Corey Coon agreed the Sandpoint Police Department would investigate the case and continue to do so.

The recent unfortunate death of the fair director does not impact the search for the truth and the investigation will continue.

We are aware of many unfounded accusations and threats being made regarding this issue. This is highly inappropriate and needs to cease. The investigation is not complete and will take some time into the foreseeable future. Until the facts are known we would strongly encourage everyone to avoid incendiary accusations and finger pointing.

Corey Coon, Sandpoint Police Chief
Daryl Wheeler, Bonner County Sheriff
Louis Marshall, Bonner County Prosecuting Attorney