Luce County man pleads to stealing from schools

Marquette, MI – A Luce County man has pleaded guilty in Federal Court to stealing. 40-year-old Steven Richards of McMillan was employed for several years by the Tahquamenon Area Schools as a bus mechanic.
The district receives federal funds in excess of $10,000 per year. Richards admitted to using the school bus garage to conduct personal business, and also sold parts and supplies purchased through the TAS transportation account to area businesses that needed truck repairs. Investigation revealed TAS had paid a parts company more than $8,500 for an engine that didn't match any vehicle in its fleet. The engine was later found in a truck owned by Richards. Richards is charged with Theft from a Program Receiving Federal Funds. Sentencing is set for March 28.