Home / Crime and Justice / Fresno Manager Embezzles $1.8M, Gets 33 Months
Fresno Manager Embezzles $1.8M, Gets 33 Months
11 Aug
Summary
- Manager sentenced to 33 months for embezzling $1.8 million.
- Thefts occurred over four years via wire transfers to herself.
- Gambling and alcohol addiction cited as contributing factors.
A former operations manager for the Fresno Arts Council has received a 33-month federal prison sentence for embezzling $1.8 million. Suliana Caldwell engaged in a multi-year scheme, wiring funds to herself approximately 300 times over more than four years while falsifying records to conceal the thefts.
During the sentencing hearing, Caldwell expressed remorse for her actions, which her attorney attributed partly to gambling and alcohol addictions. He argued for leniency, noting her acceptance of responsibility and the lack of sufficient internal safeguards. However, the judge deemed her conduct an abuse of trust.
City officials expressed anger and disappointment, highlighting the damage to public trust within the local arts community. Efforts are underway to recover the stolen funds, with a restitution hearing scheduled for next month. Caldwell was ordered to self-surrender in October.
