A former chair of the Iowa Libertarian Party and former candidate for a Knoxville City Council seat has been arrested on charges of first degree theft. 41-year-old Michael James Conner Jr. of Knoxville became the chair in August 2020, and has since left the position. On November 19th, 2021, the party reported that between August 20th, 2020 and October 17th, 2021, Conner used the party’s Wells Fargo Bank debit card for personal use.

An investigation showed multiple unauthorized purchases, including streaming services, ATM withdrawals, grocery and alcohol purchases at multiple locations around Knoxville, using the party’s debit card. Surveillance footage from several Knoxville businesses confirmed the use of the party’s card. The total value of unauthorized transactions was $10,037.00.

Conner was arrested Wednesday, and posted a $10,000 bond. He faces charges of theft 1st degree, a Class C felony. A preliminary hearing will be held at a later date.