Former Budget Analyst Admits to Stealing $122,000 from Albany County Sheriff’s Office
ALBANY – A shocking revelation came to light as John T. Cox, a former budget analyst for the Albany County Sheriff’s Office, pleaded guilty to stealing over $122,000 from the agency. The 61-year-old Schenectady resident admitted to committing mail fraud and embezzling money from a federally funded agency.
Cox confessed to issuing 16 fraudulent checks between June 2017 and February 2023, drawing funds from the sheriff’s office for personal use. His actions have raised serious concerns about the internal financial controls within the agency.
According to federal prosecutors, Cox used the stolen money to pay himself directly or to pay down his line of credit. In an attempt to cover up his fraudulent activities, he falsified records to make it appear as if the funds were being used for legitimate purposes.
As the case unfolds, Cox is set to be sentenced on May 9 and could face up to 20 years in prison. Additionally, he has agreed to repay the stolen money in restitution, although the damage caused by his actions may have far-reaching implications for the sheriff’s office.
The investigation into Cox’s embezzlement was a collaborative effort involving the FBI, Department of Justice, Office of the Inspector General, and the Albany County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua R. Rosenthal is leading the prosecution in this case.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of maintaining strict financial oversight and ethical conduct within law enforcement agencies, as they play a crucial role in upholding the trust and integrity of the community they serve.
Disagree
Wow, this is just outrageous! Stealing such a huge amount from law enforcement is absolutely unacceptable. Justice needs to be served swiftly and harshly.