(Cass Co.) Former Atlantic Chamber Director Bailey Linn Smith, 33, turned herself in today on a Cass County Sheriff’s Office warrant for the following charges: Ongoing Criminal Conduct – Unlawful Activity, Fraudulent Practice 1st Degree, Theft 1st Degree, and Unauthorized Use of Credit Card Over $10,000. Smith was booked in at the Cass County Jail with bail set at $100,000 cash surety.
On September 17th, the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors announced that Bailey Smith was no longer employed with the organization as of September 15, 2025.
The Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce issued the following statement:
“The Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce has been informed that former Executive Director Bailey Smith was recently arrested by the Cass County Sheriff’s Office.
On August 29, 2025, the Chamber Board placed Ms. Smith on unpaid administrative leave after concerns arose regarding financial matters. Following its internal review, the Board ended her employment on September 15, 2025. The Chamber has fully cooperated with law enforcement throughout this process.
“Our duty as a Board is to protect the Chamber and act in the best interests of our members and community,” said Board President Anne Quist. “We took immediate action to address concerns, completed a thorough review, and have acted promptly to ensure the integrity and stability of the organization moving forward.”
Details regarding the arrest, charges, and proceedings are being handled by law enforcement and the courts. The Chamber will not be commenting further while this legal process is ongoing.
The Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce has served as a cornerstone of the community for decades, supporting local businesses, fostering economic growth, and promoting the vitality of Atlantic. The organization remains strong and will continue to serve as an important and trusted part of the community. Chamber operations continue without interruption under the direction of the Board and Program Director Kelsey Beschorner.”
Update:
The Cass County Sheriff’s Office also reports:
On October 3rd, 2025, the Cass County Sheriff’s Office arrested Christina Marie Stevens, 37, of Anita on the charge of Driving While Barred. Stevens was transported to the Cass County Jail where she was booked and later released on bond.
On October 3rd, 2025, the Cass County Sheriff’s Office arrested Taylor Thomas Montgomery, 21, of Atlantic on the charge of OWI – 1st Offense. Montgomery was transported to the Cass County Jail where he was booked and later released on his own recognizance.
On October 5th, 2025, the Cass County Sheriff’s Office arrested Kray Mathew Lukehart, 30, of Atlantic on charges of OWI – 3rd Offense, Driving while Barred, and Operation without Ignition Interlock. Lukehart was transported to the Cass County Jail where he was booked and released on bond.
On October 6th, 2025, the Cass County Sheriff’s Office arrested Alysha Anne Buell, 36, of Council Bluffs on two Bench Warrants for Failure to Appear. Buell was transported to the Cass County Jail where she was booked and held.
All criminal charges are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in the court of law.
