A former IT employee at New England Law in Boston, Gareth Flanagan, has been charged with larceny for allegedly making unauthorized purchases totaling around $68,000 using the school’s Amazon account. Flanagan, 52, from Medford, Massachusetts, is facing three larceny charges, as reported by various sources.
It is alleged that Flanagan used the school’s Amazon account to buy equipment for his band, Sloth Machine, along with other items. An audit conducted by the school revealed the extent of the unauthorized purchases. Flanagan had the authority to make purchases up to $5,000 without needing approval, but he allegedly exceeded this limit.
According to the Suffolk County district attorney’s office, Flanagan claimed that he was testing the equipment he purchased, some of which he returned. He was terminated from his position at New England Law in October 2022, as confirmed by a school spokesperson. Flanagan had been employed at the school for 14 years, holding the position of director of information technology and associate director of online learning.
New England Law expressed gratitude to the district attorney’s office and the Boston Police Department for their thorough investigation. The school stated that it would continue to cooperate with law enforcement in the future to address the situation.
The case highlights the importance of financial oversight and internal controls within organizations to prevent unauthorized activities. It serves as a reminder for institutions to regularly review their purchasing processes and monitor expenditures to detect any irregularities promptly.
Instances of employee misconduct, such as the one involving Flanagan, can have significant repercussions for both the individual and the organization. In this case, the former IT director is now facing legal consequences for his alleged actions, which could impact his professional reputation and future employment opportunities.
It is essential for companies and educational institutions to have strict protocols in place regarding financial transactions and access to sensitive accounts. By enforcing clear guidelines and conducting regular audits, organizations can minimize the risk of fraud and unauthorized activities.
As the legal proceedings unfold, it will be crucial to follow any updates on the case to understand the full extent of the situation and the implications for all parties involved. The incident serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of upholding ethical standards and adhering to established policies to maintain trust and integrity within an organization.