Minneapolis Official Fired Over Theft Accusations
A former deputy press secretary from the Obama era was let go from his position with the city of Minneapolis last week. The reason? He faced allegations of stealing cash and credit cards from city employees to purchase herbal supplements aimed at alleviating opioid withdrawal symptoms.
Adam Fetcher, aged 42, worked as the city’s public information officer for about a year before his firing. The accusations are particularly troubling since they came just after Fetcher returned from an extended, work-approved rehabilitation program. According to reports, a city employee claimed that their credit card had been used without permission.
The situation has now been referred to the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office for review. A spokesperson confirmed this to FOX News Digital, which also reached out to Fetcher’s attorney for comments.
Allegations of Misuse of City Funds
Fetcher was allegedly recorded on surveillance video at a smoke shop, where he bought kratom—a herbal product with potential for addiction, commonly used for opioid withdrawal. Claims suggest that he stole a credit card from a colleague’s wallet, reportedly using it to make a $481 purchase at a Tobacco and Vapor store located less than a mile from his home.
The store manager mentioned that their staff assisted investigators in identifying Fetcher, recognizing him as the individual who made the purchases using the stolen card. The investigation began when a woman alerted the store about unauthorized charges on her card. Staff later recognized Fetcher when he returned, snapping photos of him and noting his vehicle’s license plate.
Fetcher, who had an annual salary of $186,000, was laid off on July 1. In an email regarding the layoffs, City Operations Director Margaret Anderson Kelliher emphasized that Fetcher’s leadership had been essential for the communications team’s organization but did not address the specifics behind his dismissal. The email did mention that several city employees reported missing or questionable charges on their cards within a specific timeframe.
Kelliher assured staff that the city is taking these reports seriously, noting that while the situation is alarming, there’s no current evidence suggesting an ongoing theft risk.
Interestingly, Fetcher has a notable background, having served as deputy press secretary during the Obama administration and held senior roles at companies like Patagonia, Rivian, and Lyft.
