BOCC Candidate’s Wife Accused of Stealing $40K from Homebuilders Association

Left to Right Xenia Pino, Burton, Nina at Hernando Hispanic Heritage Festival

Wife of Former BOCC Candidate Accused of Stealing $40K from Hernando Builders Association

Hernando County — Nita Melaugh, the wife of former Hernando County Board of County Commissioners candidate Burton Melaugh, is facing allegations of stealing more than $40,000 from the Hernando Builders Association (HBA).

According to investigators, the funds were taken over a period of time and used for various personal expenses, including legal paperwork related to her divorce from Burton. The theft has sent shockwaves through the local construction and development community, as the HBA plays a key role in representing builders and contractors in Hernando County.

Burton Melaugh, who ran as an independent in the 2024 general election for the District 3 commission seat, received 5,455 votes or 5.2% of the vote before losing the race. He has not been accused of any wrongdoing in connection with the case.

Authorities have not yet released full details on pending charges, but the HBA is reportedly cooperating fully with law enforcement. The association has not issued a formal statement beyond confirming that steps are being taken to recover the stolen funds.

This case remains under active investigation.