Loretta J Reckart, Embezzlement of University Funds, WV 2024

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – In a stunning revelation from the federal district court in West Virginia, Loretta J. Reckart, 55, of Bruceton Mills, has been formally indicted for embezzling an astonishing $87,529 from West Virginia University (WVU). The charges were announced by Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen.

The grand jury in Wheeling handed down the indictment, charging Reckart with one count of ‘Theft Concerning Programs Receiving Federal Funds.’ It is alleged that the fraudulent activities took place between October 2010 and July 2016 within Monongalia County while Reckart was employed at WVU.

Should she be found guilty, Reckart could face up to ten years in federal prison and a monetary fine of up to $250,000. The sentencing will be determined by the severity of the offenses and any prior criminal history that may come to light, according to the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert H. McWilliams is handling the prosecution of this case on behalf of the government. The United States Department of Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation into the allegations against Reckart.

As with any criminal charge, an indictment is merely an accusation, and Reckart is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

This case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of financial fraud within educational institutions, and it underscores the government’s commitment to investigating and prosecuting such crimes.