PHENIX CITY, Ala. (AP) — An American Legion commander in Alabama says racism is at the heart of why he’s been accused of misappropriating $10,000.

The first black commander for one Phenix City post was suspended in February from his position as senior vice commander for the state American Legion. The Columbus Ledger-Enquirer cites a post complaint that says 62-year-old Leroy Davis took $10,000 from the post’s bank account without authorization and gave it to another employer.

But a letter by county commissioners says Davis was given permission to move the money.

Davis says the suspension is an effort to block him from becoming state commander. Post adjutant Wayne Mitchell was one of Davis’ accusers and denies racism played a part.

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Information from: Columbus Ledger-Enquirer, http://ledger-enquirer.com