Rumors buzzed around Grant City for weeks about possible inappropriate activities and an investigation into the workings of the Worth County Sheriff's Department.

Tuesday, the Missouri State Highway Patrol and court records confirmed that Worth County Sheriff Neal "Bear" Groom is the target of an investigation begun by the prosecuting attorney, John Young.

"I would never knowingly do any act that would compromise my position as sheriff," Mr. Groom said in an interview Tuesday.

No charges have been filed against Mr. Groom.

The Missouri Attorney General's office has received the notice appointing it to the case, spokesman John Fougere said.

The Highway Patrol has been conducting a special investigation, said Sgt. Jason Clark, a member of the violent crimes support unit in Jefferson City. Mr. Clark declined to discuss the specifics of the investigation.

Criminal investigators working out of Troop H have been involved in the case, but Sgt. Sheldon Lyon, a spokesman for the Troop, declined to discuss the case and said all information would have to come from Jefferson City.

On May 9, Mr. Young, who also is the Mercer County prosecuting attorney, filed a motion with the courts stating he had a conflict of interest in the case and asked to be withdrawn.

Circuit Judge Roger Prokes disqualified Mr. Young and appointed the Missouri Attorney General's office later that same day.

Marshall White can be contacted at marshall@npgco.com.