International Courant
A person who has served as treasurer for dozens of political campaigns in Ohio over the previous 40 years is dealing with federal wire fraud prices for allegedly stealing practically $1 million from purchasers.
William Curlis, 76, is accused of writing checks from marketing campaign accounts to himself for private use and taking steps to cover the thefts. He allegedly stole $995,231 between 2008 and June 2023, in accordance with the U.S. Legal professional’s workplace for the Southern District of Ohio.
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A plea settlement has been filed within the case, prosecutors mentioned, however additional particulars haven’t been disclosed.
The State Capitol of Ohio in Columbus, Ohio. (Joe Sohm/Visions of America/Common Photographs Group by way of Getty Photographs)
“The submitting of the plea settlement demonstrates Mr. Curlis’ dedication to accepting accountability and demonstrating regret for his actions,” mentioned his legal professional, Mark Collins.
“He walked into the U.S. Legal professional’s workplace and admitted his wrongdoings,” Collins mentioned. “I can’t focus on the main points or causes at this level. Nevertheless, as soon as this case works via the federal system, these questions will probably be answered.”
Curlis served as treasurer for greater than 100 native, state and federal Republican campaigns, usually as the one signatory on accounts, prosecutors mentioned. Based on courtroom paperwork, he wrote himself a number of checks from candidates’ marketing campaign funds and one PAC’s fund whereas serving as treasurer.
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To hide the thefts, Curlis allegedly transferred funds between accounts with out the candidates’ information and falsified corresponding marketing campaign finance stories. Curlis bought his house in 2016, allegedly to cowl the price of marketing campaign bills and conceal account deficits brought on by his theft.
