An external attorney has led an investigation into Magna Mayor Mick Sudbury following a complaint filed in July, according to a September 5 report. The findings have been communicated to the Magna City Council.
Unconfirmed reports from GephardtDaily and Fox 13 indicate the investigator found the mayor's behavior to be unprofessional and offensive toward subordinates. The reports suggest the mayor's conduct included making an employee cry and instances of retaliation against a witness.
ABC4 reported that an 85-page document details concerns regarding Sudbury's conduct over several years. The report includes a recommendation that certain findings be referred to the prosecutor's office to determine if any crimes were committed.
According to the report, Sudbury allegedly caused unintentional injury to an employee and mistreated another staff member immediately following their hiring. One individual, whose name was redacted, described recurring episodes of shouting or anger followed by periods where Sudbury apologized or acted as if no conflict had occurred.
Additional allegations in the report involve mistreatment of contractors, consultants, and staff from public entities. The documents also address the mayor's relationship with Unified Police Department staff, stating that during emergency calls, the mayor's actions were described as a threat to the safety of officers, the scene, privacy, and the ability of officers to maintain control.
The Magna City Council stated that following the investigator's recommendation, the city has referred certain allegations to the Utah Attorney General's Office and the Political Subdivisions Ethics Commission for further investigation. The council is also reviewing other recommendations in accordance with applicable laws and procedures.
This investigation is independent of a separate inquiry regarding Councilwoman Audrey Pierce, who resigned before those investigations concluded. Mick Sudbury stated he is reviewing the investigation report and affirmed his commitment to serving the community.