Thursday, May 13, 2010

Former Finance Director Of Pennsylvania Convention Center Charged In $775K Embezzlement Scheme

William T. Barnes, 71, of Norristown, Pennsylvania was arrested and charged yesterday with embezzling more than $775,000 from the non-profit Valley Forge Convention &Visitor’s Bureau where he had been employed as Director of Finances and Administration. Barnes, who was charged with theft, forgery, tampering with records and other charges, allegedly embezzled a total of $775,509 over a 10 year period until he retired in February 2009, reportedly to pay child support and alimony. Authorities allege that Barnes wrote himself checks and forged signatures.

Read the story here and here.

Watch the video here.
Update (1/14/11): Barnes pleaded guilty to multiple charges admitting he embezzled more than $775,000.

Update (9/14/11): Barnes, now 72, was sentenced to 15 to 30-months in county jail, followed by about 9 ½ years of probation.  Barnes reportedly spent the funds to support a lavish lifestyle and a gambling addiction. 

Read an updated comprehensive article on the story here.

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