CLARKSBURG, West Virginia — The former manager of a Morgantown construction firm pleaded guilty to stealing millions of dollars from the firm, U.S. Attorney William Ironfield announced.
Michael D. Allen, 60, of Irvine, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to wire fraud and money laundering in federal court today. Allen was previously a manager of ABB Construction, LLC, which operates as Accelerated Construction Services. Allen used his position to illegally embezzle $3.5 million in company funds for personal gain.
“When someone abuses a position of trust for personal financial gain, there can be serious repercussions for individuals and businesses,” U.S. Attorney Ellen Field said. “Because of this, we will continue to aggressively pursue white-collar criminals like Mr. Zhang. Allen.”
One of the items Allen purchased with the stolen money was a 5.19-carat diamond ring that sold for $113,250.
In addition to being asked to pay back the money he stole, Allen faces up to 30 years in prison. According to federal sentencing guidelines, the actual sentence will be based on the seriousness of the offense and the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarod J. Douglas is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The IRS Criminal Investigation and the Monongalia County Sheriff’s Office conducted an investigation. The FBI assisted in the investigation.
U.S. District Judge Michael John Aloy presided.