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The theft of $113,000 from Councilmember Michael Brown’s (I-At Large) campaign is still under investigation by MPD, but Police Chief Cathy Lanier tells WTOP that there isn’t yet enough evidence to bring charges against the alleged thief:

“The allegation is that money was taken, that’s what’s under investigation. Until we have substantial information to support that, there’s not going to be charges brought,” Lanier said on WTOP’s “Ask the Chief” program.

Lanier said her department and the U.S Attorney’s Office are looking into the allegations. Campaign finance reports show Hakim Sutton, Brown’s former campaign treasurer, cashed 34 checks totaling $113,950 – the exact amount Brown says is missing.

Sutton’s attorney has said the payments were authorized by Brown. Brown’s spokesperson has denied that charge.

The theft of the funds has left Brown with less money than his opponents, though a campaign finance report due next week will give an insight into how much the incumbent will have to work with leading up to the November 6 election.

Two of Brown’s opponents—independent David Grosso and Republican Mary Brooks Beatty—have said that the theft of the funds speaks to Brown’s inability to oversee municipal affairs, a charge that he has rejected.