EVANSVILLE, IN – A pillar of the community allegedly turned into a predator, pilfering nearly $100,000 from a non-profit dedicated to helping the vulnerable. Mark A. Schmitt, 65, of Jasper, Indiana, has been formally charged with Theft Concerning Programs Receiving Federal Funds, the U.S. Attorney’s Office announced today.
According to court documents filed May 31, 2019, Schmitt wasn’t some street thug. He was the Assistant Director and Accountant for ATTIC Incorporated, a Knox County organization providing vital services to disabled individuals. From May 1, 2018, to October 31, 2018, authorities allege Schmitt systematically transferred approximately $98,000 from ATTIC’s accounts into one he personally controlled, and then used that money for his own selfish gain. A betrayal of the worst kind.
“Violating the public trust will not go unpunished,” declared Josh J. Minkler, the United States Attorney, in a prepared statement. “Intentionally securing public funds for personal gain is unacceptable. This charge should serve as an example of the fate individuals who commit these crimes can expect.” Words are cheap, though. It’s the courtroom where justice truly happens.
The investigation, spearheaded by the Evansville office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, paints a picture of calculated deception. Schmitt allegedly abused his position of authority, exploiting a system designed to help those in need. The FBI’s involvement signals the seriousness with which federal authorities are treating this breach of trust.
Assistant United States Attorney Todd S. Shellenbarger, prosecuting the case, confirms Schmitt now faces a potential sentence of up to 10 years behind bars and a hefty $250,000 fine. However, an Information is merely an accusation, and Schmitt, like all defendants, is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
This prosecution isn’t an isolated incident, according to Minkler. It’s part of a broader Strategic Plan – announced in October 2017 – to aggressively target fraud and public corruption within the Southern District of Indiana. The Office vows to continue its relentless pursuit of those who exploit the system and betray the public’s confidence. The fate of Schmitt will likely set a precedent for future cases of this nature.
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Key Facts
- State: Indiana
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: White Collar Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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