A state investigation into suspected wrongdoing at the Veteran's Home in King has culminated in criminal charges against the former public information officer. Richard C. Calcut has been charged with felony theft by fraud. Charges were filed by the Wisconsin Department of Justice. The criminal complaint alleges the 52 year old Calcut served as a public information officer for the Wisconsin Veterans Home at King in Waupaca County. As part of his duties, Calcut served as a volunteer coordinator and liaison with the King Recreation Committee.
According to the complaint, Calcut requested Committee members to sign blank checks, authorizing him to complete the payee name and amount as various expenses arose. Originally, Calcut directed funds to a Lincoln Lodge account, affiliated with the American Veterans (AMVETS) organization and then withdrew the money from that account for his own use. Later, he cashed the Committee's checks, retaining the proceeds for his own use. The complaint alleges that the total losses are approximately $250,000. If convicted of felony theft by fraud, Calcut faces a maximum possible penalty of ten years in prison, a $25,000 fine, or both. An initial appearance is scheduled in Waupaca County Circuit Court on March 25.
AUDIO: Jack Barry reports (1:10 MP3)
