Stow Man Steiger Gets 33 Months for $744K Fraud

STOW, OH – Thomas A. Steiger, 45, of Stow, Ohio, is headed to federal prison after admitting to a brazen scheme that cost his employer over three-quarters of a million dollars. Steiger was sentenced to 33 months behind bars for systematically defrauding Voith Industrial Services, Inc., according to a statement released by United States Attorney Steven M. Dettelbach for the Northern District of Ohio.

The scheme unfolded between 2011 and 2012 while Steiger was stationed at the Ford Motor Company Stamping Plant in Walton Hills, Ohio, representing Voith. Court documents reveal Steiger used his position to order industrial equipment using company invoices, but instead of the equipment going to its intended purpose, he flipped it for personal profit, selling it to individuals with no connection to Voith.

The total loss to Voith Industrial Services tallied a staggering $744,109.00, a sum Steiger will be forced to repay as part of his sentence. He previously pleaded guilty to six counts of wire fraud and four counts of interstate transportation of property obtained by fraud – charges that carry significant penalties.

Federal investigators with the Federal Bureau of Investigation uncovered the fraud, with crucial assistance provided by the Walton Hills Police Department. The investigation painstakingly traced the movement of the stolen equipment and the illicit profits generated by Steiger’s actions.

Assistant United States Attorney James V. Moroney skillfully prosecuted the case, presenting the evidence that led to Steiger’s conviction and subsequent sentencing. The 33-month prison term sends a clear message that such predatory behavior will not be tolerated in the Northern District of Ohio. Beyond incarceration, Steiger is also ordered to pay full restitution of $744,109.00 to Voith Industrial Services.

This case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact white-collar crime can have on businesses and the importance of robust internal controls to prevent such schemes. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and report on similar instances of financial malfeasance.