Billie Preston, a 41-year-old Monkton woman, has pleaded guilty to embezzling $84,000 from her former employer, Endyne Inc., an environmental testing laboratory based in Williston. The shocking scheme, which spanned over two years, has left many questioning how the bookkeeper managed to fly under the radar for so long.
According to court records, Preston was employed as a bookkeeper by Endyne Inc. between November 2011 and April 2014. During this period, she handled the company’s payroll and accounts receivables and payables. But behind the scenes, Preston was falsifying payroll records, causing the firm to issue her paychecks and make electronic funds transfers in excess of her authorized salary.
The embezzlement, which began in January 2012, continued until April 2014, with Preston making electronic transfers of company funds to pay her personal bills. The total amount of stolen money? A staggering $84,000.
The case was investigated by the Williston Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Preston faces up to 20 years of imprisonment and a fine of up to $250,000. Her actual sentence will be determined with reference to federal sentencing guidelines.
Preston’s lawyer, Robert Kaplan, has not made any statements regarding the case. The prosecutor, Assistant U.S. Attorney Gregory Waples, has also declined to comment.
The guilty plea marks a significant milestone in the case, which has been ongoing since October 2014. Preston’s sentencing has been scheduled for February 27. As the community grapples with the news, one thing is clear: the consequences of Preston’s actions will be severe.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of financial transparency and accountability. As the investigation unfolds, it remains to be seen how Preston managed to pull off the elaborate scheme for so long. But one thing is certain: the truth will come to light, and justice will be served.
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Key Facts
- State: Vermont
- Category: White Collar Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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