Monday, August 5, 2024

Former San Luis Obispo County California employee accused of stealing $250,000 pleads no contest, faces prison time

Former County Employee Pleads No Contest to Embezzling $250,000

SAN LUIS OBISPO, Calif. – Norman Hibble, 54, a former employee of the San Luis Obispo County technology department, pleaded no contest to seven counts of embezzlement last week. Hibble misused county funds to purchase DJ equipment, camera gear, and other items, leading to his arrest and charges on February 20.

Misuse of County Funds for Personal Purchases

Hibble, who worked for the county from April 2017 to January 2023, was charged with 12 counts of embezzlement but pleaded no contest to seven counts on July 17. He also admitted to a sentencing enhancement for stealing more than $100,000. A no contest plea functions the same as a guilty plea without admitting direct fault.

Sentence and Charges

Hibble agreed to a six-year prison sentence, consisting of three years for the first embezzlement count, two years for a second count, and one year for the sentencing enhancement. The five other counts carry three-year concurrent sentences, to be served simultaneously with the first count. He faced a maximum of 16 years in prison and will be sentenced on August 21.

County Credit Card Misuse and Investigation

Deputy District Attorney Ben Blumenthal detailed Hibble's misuse of a county-issued credit card to buy high-end DJ equipment, photo gear, a $2,000 crossbow, and an electric scooter. Hibble even purchased a large storage container to store his items. During the COVID-19 crisis, he used the county card to buy a $3,300 video editing system, falsely claiming he bought a printer.

As of February 28, the District Attorney’s Office calculated Hibble's total theft at $250,000, but further assessment of the stolen amount is ongoing.

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Investigation and Sentencing

The investigation, conducted by the District Attorney’s Office, revealed the extent of Hibble's fraudulent activities. His sentencing will finalize the legal proceedings and aim to recover the misappropriated funds.

This case serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilant oversight in public sector financial management to prevent similar instances of fraud and abuse.

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