By Casey Jarmes | The News-Review
SIGOURNEY – A lawsuit has been launched against the Sigourney-based farm implements chain Sinclair Tractor and its manager and co-owner, Robert (Bob) Sinclair, by his parents and the company’s other co-owners, Maurice (Moe) and Helen Sinclair. According to the lawsuit, Robert Sinclair manages and controls the company’s finances and is legally required to provide information on the company’s activities, affairs, and financial condition to the co-owners upon request. The lawsuit alleges that Bob Sinclair has failed to provide access to the company’s accounting system and records, John Deere financial record-keeping software, and year-to-date financials for the company. Any responses to questions from Moe and Helen’s accountant also went unanswered.
The lawsuit states that Bob Sinclair initially acknowledged the valid demand for information, authorizing Sinclair Tractor Controller Angie O’Carroll to assist with Moe and Helen Sinclair’s accounting firm, UHY, during an on-site visit with records and obtaining information from the John Deere software. The lawsuit then alleges that, without explanation, Bob Sinclair kicked the UHY accountant off the premises and prevented them from obtaining the requested information.
An email sent by Bob Sinclair to O’Carroll on Dec. 15, included in the lawsuit, shows Sinclair saying “You said that UHY’s Consultant in our conference room is searching for past year mistakes. Don’t waste your time with him anymore. Kick him out of our conference room and have UHY work with CLA (the company’s accountant) to access past audits and supporting documents. I need you focused on this organization at our path forward. I have copied Susan on this email and she can help you kick that consultant out as needed.”
To date, the lawsuit claims that Bob Sinclair has refused and failed to produce the requested information as mandated by Iowa Code § 489.410. Bob Sinclair did not respond to requests for comment prior to publication.
