Former University Employee Allegedly Stole $18,000-Plus From UNItix in Cedar Falls

John David Gogola, a former assistant director of the 's ticketing operation, UNItix, was arrested today after he allegedly stole more than $18,000 from the ticketing system in 2010.

According to the Office of the Auditor of State, Gogola, 44 used a highly complicated system to siphon $18,891 before leaving the university in late 2010. He has been charged with first degree theft, a class C felony and is currently being held on $50,000 bond at the Black Hawk County Jail.

"A UNItix patron called to confirm when she would receive her Panther Athletics tickets," said Steve Carignan, UNI assistant vice president for administration and financial services and executive director of the Gallagher-Bluedorn Performing Arts Center. "The UNItix director found the payment had been received, but the tickets hadn't been issued. An internal review of UNItix records indicated the probable theft of several thousand dollars."

UNI officials immediately contacted the state auditor's office to request a special investigation.

"In the end, almost all the funds taken were from the main UNItix account, but a small number of individuals and groups did lose money," Carignan said. "We are contacting all the people and groups affected, and checks are being mailed today to repay the stolen funds."

He said UNI will pursue restitution from Gogola. The auditor's report was given to the Black Hawk County Attorney's Office for consideration of criminal charges against Gogola.

"UNI is committed to continuously improving processes and systems," Carignan said. "The report includes recommendations about how to improve internal controls and transaction security, most of which already have been implemented."

The full report is available online.