BURLINGTON, VT – Susan Blaue, 39, of Woodstock, Vermont, entered a plea of not guilty Wednesday in federal court to charges stemming from a brazen embezzlement scheme at ABLE Waste Management and its related companies. The feds allege Blaue systematically siphoned off over $130,000 while acting as a bookkeeper, using her position to line her own pockets.
According to a federal indictment returned by a grand jury in Rutland on March 29, 2017, Blaue worked at ABLE Waste Management in Plymouth from 2012 to early 2015. She ascended to the role of bookkeeper in early 2013, gaining control over accounts receivable, accounts payable, and the company payroll. While she lacked direct check-signing authority, investigators say she exploited access to the owner’s signature stamp.
The indictment details a calculated operation spanning from approximately April 2013 through January 2015. Blaue allegedly issued numerous unauthorized checks to herself, either forging the owner’s signature or illegally using the signature stamp. These checks were then deposited into her personal bank account. Beyond the checks, prosecutors claim she brazenly used company funds to cover her personal bills and made unauthorized purchases with ABLE credit cards. The alleged scheme even extended to Blaue using company money to pay the rent on the company-owned house she occupied as an employee.
The total amount stolen is estimated at $130,000. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont was quick to emphasize that the indictment represents accusations only, and Blaue is presumed innocent until proven guilty. However, if convicted on the charges of forgery, mail fraud, and credit card fraud, she faces a stiff penalty: up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentencing, if any, will adhere to federal guidelines.
The case was a joint investigation led by the United States Secret Service and the Windsor County Sheriff’s Office. The Secret Service, typically known for protecting dignitaries, has a significant investigative arm focused on financial crimes, and apparently, they weren’t impressed with Blaue’s accounting practices. Assistant U.S. Attorney Gregory Waples is prosecuting the case, while Susan Blaue is being represented by Assistant Federal Public Defender David McColgin.
Judge Christina Reiss released Blaue on conditions pending trial, meaning she remains free for now, but the shadow of these charges looms large. The case is a stark reminder that even seemingly small businesses can be vulnerable to internal theft, and that financial crimes, no matter the scale, will be pursued by federal authorities.
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Key Facts
- Agency: U.S. Secret Service
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: Official Press Release
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