State Highway Administration Employee Charged with Felony Theft

BALTIMORE, MD (Oct. 5, 2011) – Attorney General Douglas F. Gansler announced today that former State Highway Administration employee Joseph Miklochik of Baltimore, has been charged with one count of Felony Theft Scheme in Baltimore City Circuit Court. An arraignment date has been set for November 1, 2011.

The charges allege that between January 16, 2009 and November 25, 2009, Miklochik, 53, was responsible for overseeing the operating account of the State Highway Administration’s Office of Real Estate’s Mid-Atlantic Regional Conference. During that time, Miklochik pocketed over $23,000 by writing checks to himself and putting the money towards his personal use. After a co-worker discovered and voiced concerns about the depleted funds, Miklochik repaid the money from a personal home equity loan.

A felony theft scheme over $10,000 but under $100,000 is punishable by a maximum sentence of 15 years incarceration and a $15,000 fine. Originally referred by the Maryland State Highway Administration’s Office of Audits, the investigation was conducted by the Attorney General’s Criminal Division and the Maryland State Police.

A criminal charge is merely an accusation of wrongdoing and the defendant is presumed innocent unless the State proves his guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

Media Contact:
David Paulson, 410-576-6357
dpaulson@oag.state.md.us