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$10,000 Theft Rocks Gary’s Genesis Convention Center
Deborah Black, a 62-year-old former employee of the Genesis Convention Center in Gary, Indiana, has been charged with a serious crime. According to court documents, Black allegedly used her position as Executive Director to steal over $10,000 in cash from the venue between November 2016 and August 2017.
The theft was uncovered by investigators from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with assistance from the Indiana State Police and the Indiana State Board of Accounts. Black’s alleged crime is just the latest in a string of public corruption cases plaguing the City of Gary.
‘My office will continue to aggressively prosecute instances of public corruption,’ said U.S. Attorney Kirsch. ‘Public officials are not above the law. I encourage anyone with information regarding official corruption to contact my office or the FBI.’
Black is not the only Genesis Convention Center employee to face charges in recent months. In September, coworker Victoria Wilson pleaded guilty to stealing money from the venue and was ordered to pay $12,727 in restitution to the City of Gary. Wilson’s case was also investigated by the FBI, with assistance from the Indiana State Police and the Indiana State Board of Accounts.
Under a plea agreement, Black would be required to pay $16,421.80 in restitution to the City of Gary if the court accepts the agreement. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Abizer Zanzi. The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that an Information is merely an allegation and that all persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
Black’s case serves as a stark reminder that public officials are held accountable for their actions. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to rooting out corruption and bringing those responsible to justice. If convicted, any specific sentence to be imposed will be determined by the judge after a consideration of federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The City of Gary and the Genesis Convention Center are still reeling from the aftermath of the alleged theft. The case is a sobering reminder of the need for transparency and accountability in government.
Anyone with information regarding official corruption is encouraged to contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office or the FBI. The case is a testament to the tireless efforts of law enforcement agencies working together to protect the public trust.
Key Facts
- State: Indiana
- Category: Public Corruption
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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