THE partner of a charity boss found dead after being suspended from his job has been questioned by police in connection with fraud.

Sue Garner, 55, of Bown Close, Tilbury, was the partner of Mark Williams, former chief executive of the Basildon, Billericay and Wickford Council for Voluntary Services.

Ms Garner has been released on bail while police continue their investigation. The Gazette told in June how Mr Williams was found dead at his home after being suspended from his job.

Helen Cook, a spokeswoman for Essex Police, said: “A 55-year-old woman from Tilbury was arrested by police on August 24, on suspicion of fraud. She has been released on police bail until September 14 while investigations continue.”

Mr Williams, 40, formerly known as Marc Thackham, was appointed chief executive of the charity last year. He was suspended from his job in June, after the charity launched an investigation into rumours of irregularities on his CV.

Then on June 18, Ms Garner found him dead at their home in Bown Close. He was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics.

Ms Garner said she believed the charity’s suspension of Mr Williams’ job and the investigation could have contributed to him taking his own life.

But she defended her partner’s record, claiming he was committed to his work and was not involved with any fraud.

Speaking earlier this year, Ms Garner told the Gazette of her devastating loss.

The couple had been together for five years.