Story Published:
Oct 2, 2009 at 10:36 PM MST
Story Updated:
Oct 2, 2009 at 10:36 PM MST
HARDIN - Now that Hilton's criminal past is revealed, concerned Montana citizens show up at the Hardin jail demanding answers.
Both APF and Two Rivers Authority officials tell us they were aware of Hilton's checkered past but still believe in his promise to bring prisoners to Hardin.
Toni Myers drove from Columbus, Montana, in search of answers in the ongoing story between the Hardin Jail and American Police Force. "I want to know who they are, where they're coming from, and who they're bringing with them," said Myers.
"My job is not to give you the answers you want my job is to give the information I've been employed to release or not release," said APF spokesperson Shay.
Shay spent all day answering questions from media members and the public after an AP story linked the security firm's leader Michael Hilton to multiple bankruptcies and convictions for more than a dozen felonies.
"Michael disclosed this information to me before I agreed to come work for him," said Shay. Along with Shay, TRA Vice President Al Peterson said he knew about the convictions long before the report came out but is still confident in APF. "I firmly believe APF is legitimate and a solid corporation," said Shay.
Peterson declined an on camera interview but released this statement saying quote "I believe that the TRA has a better chance of getting the detention facility open with APF than with any Montana officials. What do we have to lose if it doesn't work out," said Peterson.
APF also continues to stand firm on its stance to not releasing the parent company. "That information won't be disclosed," said Shay. But Myers and others like her pledge to continue their research and to try to get to the bottom of the mystery behind the Hardin Jail.
Calls to Michael Hilton were not returned. Becky Shay says Hilton is currently in California on business and is expected back in Hardin in the next couple weeks.
Court records from Orange County, California indicate Michael Hilton has a lengthy criminal past including a six year prison sentence for a dozen counts of grand theft and other charges.
Court documents show more than a decade of courtroom appearances for Hilton starting in 1982 through 1999 on charges including bad checks, fraud, breach of contract, and grand theft.
After his release from prison court documents indicate he was entangled in at least three civil lawsuits alleging fraud or misrepresentation.
And KULR learned Thursday there's a warrant out for Hilton's arrest in Wyoming. A Sheridan, Wyoming circuit court judge issued a warrant September 1st. A court clerk says he was ticketed for driving with a suspended driver's license on Interstate 90 in Sheridan on August 15th.
The arrest warrant was issued after he failed to appear in court.
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