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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowA former Bloomington projects manager who federal prosecutors allege stole hundreds of thousands of dollars in public funds has been charged with embezzlement and conspiracy.
The U.S. attorney's office in Indianapolis said Wednesday that 43-year-old Justin Wykoff faces 24 counts of embezzlement for allegedly approving fraudulent invoices, often for concrete work that was never done. He also has been charged with one count of conspiracy.
Investigators say Wykoff, who was taken to Marion County Jail prior to an afternoon hearing, stole more than $800,000 from the city and split it with two other men involved in the scheme.
He could face up to 10 years on each count if convicted.
Prosecutors say Wykoff received kickbacks of about one-third of the amounts paid for the fraudulent work over a 2½-year period.
Public records don't say whether he has an attorney.
Federal agents arrested Wykoff at his home early Wednesday.
Two other men have also been charged: Roger Hardin, 52, and Zachary Hardin, 25, who operate Reliable Concrete Co. in Bedford. The Hardins allegedly submitted at least 24 false invoices for concrete work to the city that were approved by Wykoff.
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