Adam Fetcher, a former press aide in the Obama administration, is facing a felony charge in Minnesota. The allegations center around the theft of a co-worker’s debit card, used to buy kratom, a substance known for its mood-altering effects, from a smoke shop in Minneapolis.
Fetcher served as the communications chief for the City of Minneapolis until he was terminated in early July. His dismissal came during a police investigation into reports that he had stolen cash and bank cards from three municipal employees to make smoke shop purchases amounting to hundreds of dollars.
Prosecutors charged Fetcher with a felony on financial transaction fraud, according to The Minneapolis Star Tribune. This incident presents another political challenge for Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, who has faced scrutiny over fraud issues linked to the city’s Somali community.
“Fetcher, aged 42, who once held communications roles in the Obama administration, was dismissed from his Minneapolis job following these allegations. He reportedly used the stolen cash and cards to purchase kratom, an herbal substance sometimes used for opioid withdrawal treatment.”
Before working under Mayor Frey, Fetcher had several roles in the Obama administration, including as press secretary within the Department of Homeland Security and the Department of the Interior. He also served as deputy national press secretary during Obama’s re-election campaign.
In the corporate world, Fetcher held positions at companies like Patagonia and Lyft, focusing on communications. Despite earning nearly $200,000 annually in his Minneapolis role and having no criminal record beyond traffic violations, it is unclear why Fetcher resorted to allegedly stealing.
“Sources suggested that the thefts occurred shortly after Fetcher’s return from a rehabilitation program, which he had discussed with coworkers.”
Kratom, often used for opioid withdrawal, has itself been the subject of increased scrutiny due to its potential to become addictive.
Fetcher’s attorney declined comments on the case. Fetcher is scheduled for a court appearance on August 11.
Attempts to contact a representative for Obama for a comment were unsuccessful.