BEDFORD – Former Lawrence County Sheriff’s Department deputy Chris Roberts waived his initial hearing this morning in Lawrence County Superior Court 1.
Roberts is accused of making more than $20,000 in unauthorized purchases from the Spring Mill Fraternal Order of Police while acting as the organization’s treasurer. Roberts, 47, of Heltonville, is facing a Level 6 felony charge of theft.
An Indiana State Investigation into the allegations began on the request for Lawrence County Prosecutor Sam Arp in March 2020. Special Prosecutor David Thomas recommended formal charges be filed against Roberts.
The FOP records showed Roberts made unauthorized purchases which include credit card payments, Amazon payments, car washes, restaurant charges, veterinarian services, and other personal charges.
Following an audit, investigators found Roberts made more than $20,000 in unauthorized purchases.
There was a written financial disclosure between Roberts and the FOP to repay the money.
Prior to his exit as FOP treasurer, Roberts made two payments to the FOP of $18,069.61 and $3,500.
Roberts retired from the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Department in March 2020.
A pretrial conference is set for 1 p.m. on February 28, 2022.
