Fraud Investigation In Iraq Could Restart Another Investigation Into The Death Of An Oklahoman

Wednesday, May 10th 2006, 9:51 am

By: News On 6

The murder of an Oklahoman in Iraq takes a dramatic twist. Miami-native and TU grad Fern Holland was gunned down in 2004, while working on the Iraqi constitution. Investigators now believe Holland was killed because those around her were embezzling money.

News on 6 anchor Terry Hood says since her death, Fern Holland has been praised as a tireless supporter of equal rights, especially for women.

The New York Times is reporting Holland was in possession of almost $200,000 when she was murdered. That money was to set up an Iraq training program on democracy, governing, and human rights.

After her death, the man who gave Holland the money was in charge of recovering it, and he said he couldn't find it all. Now he has pleaded guilty to five counts of bribery and conspiracy, and could serve up to 30 years in prison. Investigators don't suspect Fern Holland did anything illegal, but they do think her death may have been used as a cover-up for the crimes of others.

Her friends in Green Country hope this information is enough to renew interest in finding Holland's killers. Former co-worker Jim Green: "We're very hopeful that this will bring a renewed and intensified investigation that will bring light to shine on these murders and to bring the murderers to justice."

Holland's sister in Oklahoma City has even been questioned in this investigation. Right now, prosecutors say it looks like a story of corruption, with Fern Holland unfortunately caught in the crossfire.