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New Mexico Embezzlement Scandal Deepens as Former Supervisor Pleads Guilty
Marshall J. Cheromiah, 32, of Mesita, N.M., has admitted to embezzling approximately $48,953.47 from the Pueblo of Laguna in a federal court in Albuquerque, N.M. The shocking revelation comes as a result of an investigation by the Albuquerque office of the FBI and the Laguna Police Department.
Cheromiah, who worked as a supervisor at the Laguna Pueblo Superette between July 2013 and October 2014, admitted to skimming or siphoning approximately $10,000 or $20,000 for himself each time the Bank of Albuquerque delivered cash for the ATM. He used the stolen funds for gambling, paying off loans for friends, and a pleasure trip to Las Vegas, Nevada.
According to the indictment, Cheromiah was responsible for supervising the operation of the ATM machine and ordering cash deliveries from the Bank of Albuquerque. His plea agreement states that he was responsible for embezzling the funds, which he used for his personal gain.
Cheromiah faces a maximum penalty of five years in federal prison and will be required to pay approximately $21,758 in restitution. A sentencing hearing has yet to be scheduled.
The case highlights the need for increased oversight and transparency in the management of tribal assets. The Pueblo of Laguna has vowed to take steps to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul H. Spiers is prosecuting the case. The investigation was conducted by the Albuquerque office of the FBI and the Laguna Police Department.
The embezzlement scheme came to light as a result of a thorough investigation by the FBI and the Laguna Police Department. Cheromiah’s guilty plea marks a significant victory for the investigators and a step towards justice for the victims.
Key Facts
- State: New Mexico
- Category: Public Corruption|Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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