Overview
- Michael Aaron Raita, 67, surrendered to the Talladega County Sheriff after a grand jury indictment Thursday and was released on a $25,000 bond on a charge of using his official position for personal gain.
- The case stems from a 2025 state audit of 2019–2024 that found weak oversight at the Hall’s governing commission and led Gov. Kay Ivey to replace the entire board for cause.
- Auditors reported missing cash from admissions and gift-shop sales, questionable bank and credit-card transactions, and unapproved sales of museum cars, including four Pontiac pace cars that brought in about $46,000.
- The audit linked Raita to personal purchases billed to the commission, including a 1968 Camaro pace car that later drew about $22,918 in repairs and a 1998 Ford F-150.
- Raita’s attorney says he denies unlawful conduct, has cooperated with the Alabama Attorney General’s Office, and plans to plead not guilty.