SVC Official Was Target Of Embezzlement Investigation

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Prosecutors say a former Vermont college official found dead in his home had embezzled more than $400,000 over the last few months.

Hours after federal prosecutors accused former acting Southern Vermont College President James Beckwith of embezzlement, he was found dead in an apparent suicide.

Vermont State Police say he was found dead Wednesday at his Londonderry home. Investigators say his injuries are consistent with a self-inflicted gunshot wound. An autopsy is planned.

Prosecutors allege Beckwith took $440,000 between October 2012 and January, using some of it to pay down two mortgages.

No criminal charges had been filed against Beckwith. But the U.S. attorney’s office had filed a civil complaint involving his home and bank account.

Beckwith was the chief financial officer of the small liberal arts college in Bennington. He resigned February 3rd.

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