WATERFORD - Former Deputy Town Clerk Jennifer Morin is a suspect in an Oxford County Sheriff's Office investigation into the possible theft of town funds, the chairman of the Board of Selectmen said Wednesday.

"She has resigned, and we've requested an investigation because we've discovered some irregularities during a regular audit," John Bell said. "She hasn't been forthcoming with the reasons for her resignation but it would seem like more than a coincidence that she resigned when these things came to light."

As of Wednesday, Morin, who served as deputy clerk for about a decade, had not been charged with any crime.

Oxford County Sheriff Wayne Gallant confirmed that Lt. Christopher Wainwright of his office is investigating the missing funds. No county official has named Morin in connection with the case.

Bell said the amount missing is still uncertain. The town is in the process of completing a more comprehensive audit.

"In reviewing these irregularities the auditor did see a pattern over the last several years," Bell said. "The nature of the discrepancies is not something that would show up over one year."

Bell said it may be a while before the town knows precisely how much money is missing.

Bell said Morin resigned effective Feb. 3. The sheriff's office was contacted the next day.

A daily activity log from the sheriff's office shows Deputy Chris Davis responded to an embezzlement complaint in the town on Feb. 4.

David Hoisington, the accountant who conducted the town audit, declined comment on Wednesday.

A part-time worker is filling in for Morin at the town office. But the process of finding a replacement deputy clerk will not begin until after the annual town meeting on March 1, Bell said.

Morin, 34, of 339 Norway Road in North Waterford received Waterford Grange's Community Service Award in 2006. She has served as treasurer for the Oxford County United Parish, which includes North Waterford and East Stoneham churches.

Attempts to reach Morin for comment Wednesday night were unsuccessful. Both phone numbers listed in her named were disconnected, according to automated phone company messages. No forwarding numbers were available.