MARTIN COUNTY, Ky. (WKYT) - A long -time, county clerk fired her daughters after an audit discovered thousands of dollars missing.

Martin County Clerk Carol Sue Mills says she's been in turmoil for weeks.

"I want the people of Martin County to know I'm truly sorry. In 23 years, I've not had a bad audit. This time it appears to be some criminal activity," said Mills.

A routine audit revealed several thousand dollars appears to be missing. Mills say her two daughter are likely behind the disappearance in funds. They were both fired from the clerk's office after the discovery for misconduct. She says one of her daughters has an overwhelming addiction, and that her other daughter supported the habit.

"She did it to support her drug habit. She did my deposits for 22 years without any problems. They've been with me since day one. It's just unreal."

Martin County Judge Executive Kelly Callaham says he applauds Mills for her courage in pre-empting what he says will likely be be a criminal investigation.

"Carol would not do anything wrong," said Judge Executive Callaham.

"She's given her own money to customers who did not have enough to get their car registered," said deputy clerk Susie Skiles.

Mills said right now the audit is still ongoing, but she said she has been told once it is over a formal investigation will be opened.

Mills said she is not sure how the money was taken, but they have made changes to how money is handled within the office.