Gogebic County Board Member Defends Embezzlement Charges

Daniel Wood pleads not guilty and claims lack of policy guidance from county

Mar. 26, 2026 at 12:00am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Gogebic County Commissioner Daniel Wood is facing embezzlement charges after allegedly charging $426 in unauthorized expenses to his county credit card and using a county vehicle for non-county business. Wood pleaded not guilty at his arraignment on February 24th and claims the county did not provide clear policies or give him a chance to repay the funds. He believes the county is targeting him unfairly, but says he will not resign or plea bargain, and expects to have a preliminary hearing on March 27th.

Why it matters

This case highlights ongoing tensions between local government officials and the public trust, with questions around transparency, accountability, and the appropriate use of taxpayer funds. It also raises issues around onboarding and policy guidance for newly elected officials.

The details

Wood was charged with embezzlement of more than $50 by a public official after the county commission voted unanimously in November 2025 to censure him for the unauthorized expenses. He claims the county did not provide clear policies on credit card use, vehicle usage, or travel rules when he joined the commission. Wood also says the county gave him no opportunity to repay the funds before taking him to court.

  • On November 10, 2025, the County Commission voted unanimously to censure Wood.
  • On February 24, 2026, Wood pleaded not guilty at his arraignment.
  • Wood's preliminary hearing is scheduled for March 27, 2026.

The players

Daniel Wood

A Gogebic County Commissioner who is facing embezzlement charges for allegedly charging unauthorized expenses to his county credit card and using a county vehicle for non-county business.

Daniel Siirila

The Chairman of the Gogebic County Commission who removed Wood from all county and agency committees following the censure vote.

Gretchen Whitmer

The Governor of Michigan who Wood believes will not remove him from the county commission unless he is convicted.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“None of the other local attorneys really want to handle the case. Local judges also have recused themselves. They don't want to be involved in a fight against the county.”

— Daniel Wood, Gogebic County Commissioner

“Let the courts decide if he's innocent or guilty.”

— Daniel Siirila, Gogebic County Commission Chairman

What’s next

Wood's preliminary hearing is scheduled for March 27, 2026, but may be postponed as he has not yet secured an attorney.

The takeaway

This case highlights the need for clear policies and onboarding procedures for newly elected officials to avoid misunderstandings and build public trust in local government. It also raises questions about the appropriate use of taxpayer funds and the balance between accountability and due process.