Former employee makes partial restitution to Stoddard County

BLOOMFIELD, Mo. -- The Stoddard County Commission on Monday authorized a $10,000 payment made in restitution for funds stolen to be deposited in the Stoddard County Sheriff's commissary account.

Johnny Michael Robey, 58, of Bloomfield a former office manager in the sheriff's office, paid $10,000 in restitution to the county for money allegedly stolen from the sheriff's office. Robey was arrested and charged May 1 with felony stealing. The Class C felony stealing charge involves the theft of more than $500 and less than $25,000.

Robey was released on his own recognizance, with some restrictions, on May 9 for medical reasons. He is allowed to leave his home only for medical appointments, court dates or to attend church. His case is pending before Circuit Judge Rob Mayer in Division 1 Court.

Commissioner Danny Talkington asked what amount was allegedly taken from the commissary account. Sheriff Carl Hefner said details of the investigation by the Missouri State Highway Patrol's Division of Drug and Crime Control had not been released, but the amount found missing by auditors was $15,669.17.

"So he still owes the county more than $5,000," Talkington said.

Hefner said he believed the remainder would be paid by the end of the year.

Presiding Commissioner Greg Mathis said the money had been deposited in the general revenue account, pending a review by Prosecutor Russ Oliver. Mathis said Oliver had advised the commission it was permissible to transfer the money to the commissary account.

Robey was a 22-year employee in the sheriff's department. Discrepancies were found in the commissary account that Robey managed the day before the arrest was made. State auditors had just arrived for an audit of all county offices and financial statements.

Hefner said at the time he noticed Robey was acting "out of character." Robey was subsequently arrested, and a state investigation was requested by Hefner.

Pertinent address:

Bloomfield, Mo.