Gautier Utility employee charged with embezzlement

A former Gautier Utility Department employee has been arrested in an embezzlement case investigated by the state Auditor.

Auditor Shad White said Alicia Landaverde, 40, was arrested Monday and charged with embezzlement and false statements. She was taken to the Jackson County jail. No bond has been set.

Landaverde was a customer service representative with the Gautier Utility Department. She is accused of reversing late fees paid by customers and then taking those fees for herself. She was served a demand letter for $8,514.06 at the time of her arrest.

“We will continue to investigate cases, from small thefts to the largest public fraud case in state history, to ensure taxpayer dollars are protected,” said White.

Landaverde faces 25 years and $6,000 in fines if convicted on all counts.

Suspected fraud can be reported to the Auditor’s office online at any time by clicking the red button at www.osa.ms.gov or calling 1-(800)-321-1275 during normal business hours.