St. Augustine, January 29, 2026
Anthony Cuthbert, the former Assistant Police Chief of St. Augustine, is under investigation by the State Attorney’s Office for financial discrepancies involving the St. Augustine Police Benevolent Organization (PBO). The inquiry began after irregularities were identified during a routine review of the PBO’s financial accounts. This investigation not only concerns Cuthbert’s individual accountability but also raises critical questions about financial oversight within nonprofit organizations linked to law enforcement, stressing the ongoing need for integrity and transparency in such entities.
St. Augustine, Florida
Former Assistant Police Chief Under Investigation for PBO Financial Discrepancies
St. Augustine, Florida – Anthony Cuthbert, the former Assistant Police Chief of St. Augustine, is under investigation by the State Attorney’s Office following the discovery of financial discrepancies in the St. Augustine Police Benevolent Organization (PBO). This investigation emphasizes the importance of financial integrity within organizations connected to local law enforcement and the public’s trust in them.
The PBO, primarily funded through voluntary donations from police officers, plays a critical role in providing financial assistance to officers and their families during times of need. With Cuthbert having served as the PBO’s treasurer in 2003 and retiring from the department in November 2025, the investigation’s implications can extend beyond individual accountability and raise questions around the oversight of nonprofit financial practices in general.
Details of the Investigation
The inquiry began when the St. Augustine Police Department identified irregularities in the PBO’s financial accounts during a routine review. The State Attorney’s Office is dissecting the PBO’s financial records from the past five years to get to the bottom of these discrepancies and ensure that proper financial management protocols are in place for nonprofit organizations affiliated with police departments.
Department’s Position
It is worth noting that the St. Augustine Police Department and the City of St. Augustine assert they have no authority over, nor involvement in, the administration or financial management of the PBO. Both entities are fully cooperating with the State Attorney’s Office to help facilitate a transparent investigation.
Background on the PBO
The St. Augustine Police Benevolent Organization operates independently of the St. Augustine Police Department, relying on donations from its members to support law enforcement personnel and their families. Such organizations provide critical support networks, demonstrating how community-driven efforts can augment public service roles.
Recent Developments in St. Augustine Police Department
The investigation emerges during a period of transition for the St. Augustine Police Department. In December 2025, Police Chief Jennifer Michaux announced her retirement, marking the end of a historic career as the city’s first female police chief. These changes may further affect the department’s stability and public perception, particularly in light of recent scrutiny over financial management practices.
Implications of the Investigation
The financial discrepancies under investigation highlight broader concerns regarding oversight within nonprofit organizations affiliated with law enforcement agencies. Such occurrences can undermine public trust in local law enforcement and signal a need for systemic reforms to enhance financial accountability. The anticipation around the investigation’s outcome could prompt discussions about the importance of regulation and oversight in preserving integrity and accountability in charitable operations related to police work.
Conclusion
The State Attorney’s Office’s investigation into the financial discrepancies of the St. Augustine Police Benevolent Organization is ongoing. As the community looks for transparency and accountability, the cooperation of the St. Augustine Police Department and the City of St. Augustine is crucial. As more details emerge, residents are encouraged to stay informed about developments in this significant matter.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is under investigation in St. Augustine?
Anthony Cuthbert, the former Assistant Police Chief of St. Augustine, is under investigation by the State Attorney’s Office for financial discrepancies in the St. Augustine Police Benevolent Organization (PBO).
What is the St. Augustine Police Benevolent Organization (PBO)?
The PBO is a nonprofit entity established to support police officers and their families during times of need. It operates independently of the St. Augustine Police Department and is funded through voluntary donations from its members.
What is the current status of the investigation?
The State Attorney’s Office is reviewing the PBO’s financial records from the past five years as part of the ongoing investigation. The St. Augustine Police Department and the City of St. Augustine are fully cooperating with the authorities.
What is the role of the St. Augustine Police Department in the PBO?
The St. Augustine Police Department and the City of St. Augustine have no authority over, nor involvement in, the administration or financial management of the PBO. Both entities are cooperating fully with the State Attorney’s Office during the investigation.
What are the potential implications of this investigation?
The investigation into the PBO’s financial discrepancies raises concerns about financial oversight and accountability within nonprofit organizations associated with law enforcement agencies. Such incidents can impact public trust and highlight the need for stringent financial management practices. The outcome of this investigation may lead to policy changes and reforms to prevent similar issues in the future.
Key Features of the Investigation
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Subject of Investigation | Anthony Cuthbert, former Assistant Police Chief of St. Augustine |
| Organization Involved | St. Augustine Police Benevolent Organization (PBO) |
| Nature of Discrepancies | Financial irregularities identified during a routine review |
| Duration of Review | Financial records from the past five years |
| Department’s Role | No authority over PBO’s administration or financial management; full cooperation with investigation |
| Potential Implications | Concerns about financial oversight and accountability; possible policy changes and reforms |
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