A former employee of the M.D. of Taber is charged in connection to incidents of fraud and theft, September 12, 2023. (Photo: Lethbridge News Now)

By David Opinko

Former M.D. of Taber employee charged with fraud, theft

Sep 12, 2023 | 6:22 PM

TABER, AB – A former municipal employee in southern Alberta is alleged to have misappropriated taxpayer funds.

The Taber Police Service (TPS) said it was notified by the M.D. of Taber’s Chief Administrative Officer Arlos Crofts of alleged fraud in February 2023.

Following what the TPS described as a “lengthy police investigation,” it was determined that a former employee of the municipal district had reportedly stolen approximately $30,000 over a period of two years.

According to Crofts, the worker provided clerical support for revenue collection.

Crofts provided the following statement:

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“These allegations have weighed heavily on us, as we are committed to maintaining public confidence. This includes conducting a thorough internal investigation, and briefing Council once we were apprised of the situation. Subsequently, Council took immediate steps and transferred the investigation to local law enforcement for further examination,” said Crofts.

Crofts continued, “We have fully cooperated with the Taber Police Service throughout this process and will continue to do so through to resolution. The outcomes of the law enforcement inquiry are matters for the police service and justice system.”

M.D. of Taber Reeve Merrill Harris also provided a statement on the allegations:

“When we learned of this incident, we were shocked, dismayed, and disappointed. We want to thank our Municipal Administration and the Taber Police Service for dealing with this incident in a prompt and professional manner.”

Jill Speer, 45, of the M.D. of Taber, is charged with one count each of theft over $5,000 and fraud over $5,000.

She is scheduled to appear in the Taber Court of Justice on September 19, 2023.

The M.D. of Taber said it will not be making any further comments at this time.

READ MORE: Lethbridge News Now

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