Friday, October 31, 2008

Veteran Sgt. Michelle Wagner Charged with Theft


MANCHESTER

A veteran Manchester police officer accused of stealing money from what sources say was the department's Police Explorer fund was charged with theft Thursday.

Sgt. Michelle Wagner, 33, turned herself in Thursday in response to a warrant charging her with second-degree larceny, Deputy Chief Marc Montminy said in a press release. The charge stems from allegations of "inappropriate financial transactions from accounts that Sgt. Wagner managed," the release states.

Several sources said Wagner took the money from a fund used for Police Explorers. Wagner used to supervise the program for youths who want to learn about police work.

The investigation continues, the press release says; more charges may be filed against her.

Michelle Wagner, Manchester police sergeant Wagner remains on administrative leave with pay, Montminy said in a phone interview. She was placed on leave when the allegations surfaced Sept. 12, he said.

The chief state's attorney's office in Rocky Hill is overseeing the investigation, which Manchester detectives are conducting.

Wagner, a 10-year veteran of the department, was a community relations officer before her recent promotion to sergeant. She has received awards over the years, including a distinguished service medal in 2003 for her undercover work during an investigation of an escort service in Hartford.

Second-degree larceny is a felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine of as much as $10,000.

http://www.courant.com/news/local/statewire/hc-31061334.apds.m0340.bc-ct--offioct31,0,6574120.story

No comments: