Former mayor found guilty of fraud

TEXARKANA, AR – The former Garland City Mayor was sentenced to 30 months in prison Friday after being convicted of mail fraud.

In addition to the prison term, Yvonne Dockery was ordered to pay back $128,414.21 and to serve two years of probation after her release. Dockery was found guilty last July and has been ordered to report to prison on March 9th.

Dockery’s fraud involved: Converting about $42,000 of city funds to her personal use by submitting fake invoices; Buying a car for personal use with city funds; and buying firefighting equipment, returning it, and pocketing the refund.

“Conduct involving misuse of public funds is extremely serious,” stated U.S. Attorney Conner Eldridge. “This case indicates that those that abuse the public trust will be held accountable.”