After a 22-month investigation, the Auditor of State issued their report clearing Dr. Boutros, the former CEO of The MetroHealth System of any wrongdoing. The report states “Boutros’ interpretation, and thus his actions, were not unreasonable.” The report further states the MetroHealth Board “did not effectively oversee (Dr. Boutros)’s compensation as his total compensation was processed through the payroll system, which appears not to have been reviewed by the Board or the compensation consultants, thus directly contributing to (the Board’s) unawareness.”

Kevin Spellacy and James Wooley of Hilow & Spellacy, who represented Dr. Boutros reacted to MetroHealth’s statement, saying, “Two years ago, the MetroHealth Board publicly accused Dr. Boutros of fraud and criminal conduct, ruining him. This is simple: if they were right in making those accusations, the Auditor would have agreed and recommended criminal charges. Period. But the auditor did not agree. The auditor has determined they were wrong. Dead wrong. And now, instead of apologizing, they are cobbling together an argument that, even though there is no criminal conduct, they are still somehow in the right. This is beyond disappointing. It’s shameful.”

Terry Monnolly, who served on the board of The MetroHealth System for 17 years said, “The truth is important. I and other board members have always known that Dr. Boutros was entitled to every part of the incentive compensation plan. We asked him to return the money on the promise we would evaluate him and give it back to him. Instead of doing what we promised, the Board fired him. The way the Board handled this was horrific and that’s why I resigned from the Board.”

Brenda Kirk, who served on the MetroHealth Board stated, “I am elated for you, your family, and MetroHealth that the State Auditor has concluded that there were no criminal activities related to their investigation. Never could I imagine the events of the last two years, I’m so saddened by all of it but primarily the impact to you and your family. During my tenure, it was clear that you were always ethical, open, honest and steadfast in driving the mission of MetroHealth. As a matter of fact, there was nothing you loved more than talking about the unique strategies that would help Metro thrive. In my view, you and the amazing team you built were always forthright in answering any and all of the Board's questions on all topics, including exhaustive discussions on the shift to a five-year strategy and the impact that would have on leadership goals. I’m so thankful the State Auditor saw this too. The absence of your sound, visionary leadership both at Metro and in the greater Cleveland community has been felt by all."

Charles Spain, who served for more than 25 years on The MetroHealth Board, “I was on the Board during the years prior to Dr. Boutros' arrival. Dr. Boutros focused on turning MetroHealth into a sustainable, profitable organization at a time when that was not a given. Dr. Boutros created a close relationship with the Board that was open and transparent. If any Board member had any questions or issues regarding the organization, it's employees or Dr. Boutros, his door was always open. The accusations made no sense to me in light of how, during my tenure, the Board's review of monies going to the CEO, was one of its primary responsibilities. I am delighted to hear that the Auditor has issued a report resolving this matter.”

Ronald Fountain, former Chairman of the Board of The MetroHealth System, said “I had the distinct pleasure of interviewing Akram Boutros and other candidates for the position of CEO of the MetroHealth System. As a result of that process, I was very impressed with Dr. Boutros’ integrity and especially his leadership capabilities. After his hiring by the Board, I became a sitting Board member until the County executive appointed replacement trustee to fill my expiring role. During the period of mid 2016-mid 2018 I was privileged to act as a business advisor to MetroHealth, its leadership and staff. During that time, I became increasingly convinced that my early impressions of Dr. Boutros were significantly understated.”

Gareth Vaughan, President & CEO of am Higley, and former Board Chair of the MetroHealth Foundation, said “I worked closely with Dr. Boutros during my time at the MetroHealth Foundation. He always acted with the utmost integrity and transparency. It was and still is unfathomable to me that the MetroHealth Board would accuse this good and honest man of lying and stealing. I am delighted the Auditor finally got to the bottom of this scandal and cleared his name. It’s time the Board apologizes to him and make it right.”

Justin Gallo, MetroHealth’s former VP of Supply Chain, and Lieutenant Commander, US Navy Reserve said, “Dr. Akram Boutros, as a transformative CEO, motivated and influenced everyone at MetroHealth. He empowered his staff by encouraging them to take ownership and trust in their expertise. It was an honor and privilege to serve under a leader with remarkable depth and insight into advancing patient care. MetroHealth and the community are truly fortunate to have had Dr. Boutros at the helm. His dedication to improving healthcare outcomes and fostering a culture of collaboration will leave a lasting impression for years to come. Knowing Dr. Boutros as I do you, I had full confidence that the investigation would be a complete vindication of him."

Bishop Eugene Ward, Jr., Executive Pastor and CEO at Greater Love Baptist Church, wrote “Congratulations Dr. Boutros!!! I always knew of your innocence!!” and “Your leadership in this City and County has been a testimony to your character and integrity. Shame on those who tried to malign your name! Your accusers will reap what they have sown!! (Galatians 6:7)”

Richard C. Fedorovich, Executive Chairman of Bober Markey Fedorovich said, “I am pleased with the Auditor’s findings. Knowing you for as long as I have, I was always confident in the outcome. It is quite disappointing that it took 2 years for this report to be issued. It is disappointing that the salacious innuendos are what people remember and not the clearing of one’s name. You have done so much for this community and deserve better.”

Howard L. Lewis, Founder and Chairman Emeritus of Family Heritage Life Insurance Company of America, wrote “Your incredible leadership at Metro will be a living memorial to the community and to the region. The transformation of the near west side took place in remarkable fashion with your leadership and community inclusion. Representing the People, and guided by your personal honesty, your work will remain a model of collaboration between citizenry, the business community and government.”

Marianne Crosley, former CEO of the Cleveland Leadership Center, said “The opinion rendered by the state auditor puts to rest the issues that have plagued Dr. Boutros and MetroHealth these past two years. The execution of his vision to create a state-of-the-art healthcare campus that is integrated with the surrounding community has been transformative. No longer will the advances made under his watch be clouded by the investigation and we can appreciate the legacy of his leadership."

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241113392043/en/