Accident – Death – Obituary News :
Former Waterbury City Employee Faces Charges for Misappropriating Funds
A shocking incident has come to light in Waterbury, where a former city employee is facing charges for misappropriating funds. The employee, identified as 65-year-old Phyllis Labarge from Middletown, allegedly obtained credit card information from two colleagues in the City of Waterbury Corporation Counsel office. This led to a series of unauthorized transactions, totaling 20 purchases across various locations between December 7 and December 20, 2023.
Investigation and Arrest
Following complaints received on December 28, 2023, and January 16 of this year, Waterbury investigators sprung into action. Labarge resigned from her position on January 4, 2024, after working with the City of Waterbury since 2013. She was subsequently arrested on February 1 on two warrants related to the credit card incidents. Charges brought against her include fourth-degree larceny, sixth-degree larceny, payment card theft, and illegal use of a payment card.
Misappropriation of Funds
As the investigation deepened, more shocking revelations unfolded. It was alleged that Labarge misappropriated funds amounting to $15,579.67 between 2019 and 2023. The funds were reportedly stolen from cash and money-order payments made by individuals for court-ordered restitution for property damage to the city. In some instances, Labarge is accused of deleting computer files to cover her tracks.
Further Charges and Arrest
Additional charges were brought against Labarge as detectives uncovered more illegal activities during her time as a city employee. She was arrested again on Wednesday on charges of first-degree larceny, first-degree forgery, and first-degree computer crimes. Labarge was released on a $20,000 bond and is scheduled to appear in court on March 8.
The City of Waterbury has been left reeling from this shocking betrayal of trust by one of its own employees. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and accountability in all workplaces.
.