Eric Sabree

In 2016-2017, Sabree faced public scrutiny over hiring decisions while serving as Wayne County Treasurer. Shortly after receiving Wayne County Executive Warren Evans' endorsement for his election campaign, Sabree promoted Evans' then-girlfriend (later wife) Renata Seals from a $60,000 contract position to a full-time role with a $70,000 salary and benefits[1].

The promotion drew criticism when it was revealed that Seals had no prior government experience or college degree, and Sabree admitted to not considering any other candidates for the position[2]. Further questions arose about the appointment's appropriateness when investigations uncovered multiple financial judgments against Seals, including from debt collectors and apartment complexes, despite her role advising residents on tax payments and foreclosure prevention[2].

The controversy deepened with revelations about reciprocal hiring arrangements between county offices. Three months after Seals' promotion, Sabree's son Adam was hired as assistant corporation counsel by Evans' legal division[3]. While officials maintained the timing was coincidental, former Wayne County Auditor General Brendan Dunleavy characterized the arrangements as "stinking of nepotism and favoritism"[2].

Following media investigations by WXYZ-TV in May 2017, Seals resigned her position citing ethical concerns[1]. The incident highlighted broader concerns about patronage and hiring practices in Wayne County government[3].

[1] John Wisely, "Warren Evans' wife resigns county job amid questions," Detroit Free Press, May 23, 2017.

[2] Ross Jones, "Warren Evans' wife advances in gov't job despite no gov't experience," WXYZ Detroit, May 18, 2017.

[3] John Wisely and Kathleen Gray, "Questions arise over Wayne County hiring practices," Detroit Free Press, May 25, 2017.