Fifth Former Columbus Zoo Executive Pleads Guilt In Stolen Funds Scandal In Delaware Ohio
The last of five former Columbus Zoo employees involved in a theft case where over $2.29 million was taken, has pleaded guilty. Grant Bell, former purchasing assistant and son of ex-chief financial officer Greg Bell, admitted to the fifth-degree felony in Delaware County Court. At his arraignment, he pleaded guilty after being charged under a bill of information, accused of using between $1,000 and $7,000 of the embezzled funds. He confessed to using the money for a vacation and satellite radio for his wife’s car, and expressed remorse. This is the fifth successful prosecution, including former CEO Tom Stalf and marketing director Pete Fingerhut, who had initially disputed charges. The other defendants were Tracy Murnane and Greg Bell, who both received court orders to pay full restitution, along with Stalf and Fingerhut. All five were also part of a 2022 settlement requiring them to pay around $600,000 in total restitution.
– Previous CEO Tom Stalf is charged with 36 felonies and will go to trial on Aug. 6.
– Ex-chief financial officer Greg Bell admitted guilt on Oct. 19 for 14 felony charges, such as theft, conspiracy, and falsifying records. His sentence will be determined on Sept. 19.
– Former marketing director Pete Fingerhut pleaded guilty on July 2 for 16 felony and one misdemeanor charges. He will receive his sentence on Sept. 23.
– On July 8, former purchasing agent Tracy Murnane pleaded guilty to six felonies and two misdemeanors. He will be sentenced on Sept. 23.
