Ex-DWP Worker Accused of Embezzling More Than $4 Million Pleads Not Guilty

Thatcus Richard was arraigned in Los Angeles Superior Court on more than two dozen felony counts in connection with his alleged misappropriation of more than $4 million in public funds while he worked for DWP. Richard’s attorney said in court that his client is suffering from Stage 4 cancer and was pushed into court in a wheelchair. (Credit: Mark Boster / Los Angeles Times)

by: Los Angeles Times

Posted: Jun 15, 2015 / 05:50 PM PDT

Updated: Jun 15, 2015 / 05:50 PM PDT

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A former Los Angeles Department of Water and Power audio-visual technician pleaded not guilty on Monday to charges of misappropriating more than $4 million in public funds.

Prosecutors allege Thatcus “T.C.” Richard helped steer numerous small contracts for audio-visual work to companies owned by friends and that in return, those companies subcontracted with a firm Richard owned, paying him more than $1 million.
His attorney, Richard Coberly, said after Monday’s court hearing that his client maintains he has been falsely accused.

“From what he has told our office, he was a diligent employee and he’s very upset that at this point there’s allegations against him that he doesn’t believe are true,” Coberly said outside the courthouse.

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