Investigators Say More Victims Are Popping Up In Tax Scheme
By: Janice Park
Updated: October 13, 2009
The investigation into Monroe's former tax director officially ended today.
The DA's office believes the former tax director stole more than 200 thousand dollars from parish, city businesses and other government agencies.
Today, he was charged with stealing from even more businesses, civic center events and even the city marshal.
Not too long ago, Monroe City Marshal Wince Highshaw testified to the character of former tax director Patrick Onyemechara . But today, the DA's office says the city marshal was very surprised to find out he was allegedly a victim too. Investigators say Onyemechara stole thousands in campaign contributions during the city marshal's campaign. Monroe's former top tax official is now facing 30 counts of felony theft and one count of racketeering.
Investigators say Onyemechara would take tax checks made out to the city -- have a cashier cash the checks -- then take the money which was never seen again. Investigators say 96 thousand dollars was stolen from a local dry cleaner. Almost 12 thousand from the bar Top Gun. The DA's office believes Onyemechara stole at least 200 thousand dollars from countless tax payers and different government agencies.
Not too long ago, Monroe City Marshal Wince Highshaw testified to the character of former tax director Patrick Onyemechara . But today, the DA's office says the city marshal was very surprised to find out he was allegedly a victim too. Investigators say Onyemechara stole thousands in campaign contributions during the city marshal's campaign. Monroe's former top tax official is now facing 30 counts of felony theft and one count of racketeering.
Investigators say Onyemechara would take tax checks made out to the city -- have a cashier cash the checks -- then take the money which was never seen again. Investigators say 96 thousand dollars was stolen from a local dry cleaner. Almost 12 thousand from the bar Top Gun. The DA's office believes Onyemechara stole at least 200 thousand dollars from countless tax payers and different government agencies.
