FORMER CITY MARSHAL'S CLERK PLEADS GUILTY IN THEFT OF NEARLY $172,000 FROM HER EMPLOYER

Bronx District Attorney Robert T. Johnson announced today that 32 year-old Marcia Skeffery, a former clerk for a city marshal, has been convicted of attempted criminal possession of stolen property, for embezzling nearly $172,000 from her employer, Marshal Ruth Burko.

Skeffery, of 1704 Bussing Avenue, the Bronx, pled guilty to one count of Attempted criminal possession of stolen property in the 2nd degree. Acting State Supreme Court Justice Seth Marvin set sentencing for Wednesday, July 13, 2005, in Part T-27. Under the terms of the plea agreement, Skeffery is expected to be sentenced to a term of between one and three years imprisonment. In addition, Skeffery was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $25,000.

The Department of Investigations (DOI) began an investigation after Marshal Burko reported "redemption" money, payments made by car owners to redeem towed vehicles, was missing. DOI investigators discovered that Skeffery, had skimmed approximately $171,483 from about 296 vehicle owners. Skeffery, was responsible for receiving and recording payments, issuing receipts, depositing collected money in the marshal's official bank account, and preparing checks for the Department of Finance to pay the car owner's parking fines.

Mr. Johnson thanked Rose Gill Hearn, Commissioner of the Department of Investigation, along with her staff for bringing this case to our attention. Mr. Johnson also acknowledged Department of Finance Commissioner Martha E. Stark and her staff for their assistance in this case.

Assistant District Attorney Earamichia N. Brown of the Arson / Economic Crime Bureau is prosecuting this case.