Former Head of Veterans' Group in Norristown Sentenced For Embezzlement
By Brad Segall
NORRISTOWN, Pa. (CBS) -- A Montgomery County judge today sentenced the former commander of the Norristown chapter of the Disabled American Veterans to at least one year in state prison for stealing more than $40,000 from the organization.
Robert Fisher pleaded guilty earlier this year to pilfering the money while serving as the organization's commander for three years (see previous story) between 2008 and 2011.
Today, the 63-year-old Vietnam vet was sentenced to 1-3 years behind bars.
Prosecutors say he drained two bank accounts by writing checks to himself for personal expenses.
Prosecutor Jeremy Lupo recounted testimony from members of the organization about the impact the thefts have had:
"They talked about how they typically were able to provide wheelchairs or services for veterans in need, and they couldn't do those things because they simply didn't have the money. And they talked about the trust they lost in a fellow veteran."
Some members of the organization had become suspicious and obtained bank records which showed some problems.
There's new leadership now and the organization is getting back on its feet.
