Another Alexandria Employee Charged with Embezzlement

A City of Alexandria employee has been arrested for taking money from the Chinquapin Recreation Center cash register while he worked at the front desk, prompting the city manager to take steps to strengthen the city’s Office of Internal Audit.

Addo Lomotey, 38, a city resident and a city employee for four years, has been charged with one count of felony embezzlement and is being held at the city jail on a $5,000 secured bond.

Lomotey is now on administrative leave without pay. The amount he allegedly stole will not be disclosed at this time since it's part of an ongoing investigation, according to Police Department spokesman Jody Donaldson.

The city’s Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities is conducting its own administrative inquiry in conjunction with the criminal investigation being conducted by Alexandria Police. The department is also reviewing the city’s cash handling policies and procedures for the recreation centers.

The arrest of Lomotey marks the city's second arrest for embezzlement in two weeks. On Aug. 25, the city announced human resources employee Jeffrey Power took unearned overtime pay from Alexandria.

Acting City Manager Bruce Johnson sent a memo to city employees on Aug. 25 addressing the issue.

“Some of the most disappointing moments of my time in service to the city have been when I’ve learned that someone has taken advantage of their public position for their own financial gain,” Johnson wrote. “Why someone would risk their career, their retirement benefits, their reputation, indeed their freedom, in this way is beyond my comprehension.”

Johnson has asked the acting chief financial officer to review with the Office of Internal Audit the checks and balances designed to combat financial fraud.

He also requested the deputy city manager to review the Office of Internal Audit to possibly strengthen its role in city government and make recommendations.

Editor's Note: This story has been edited to show that Lomotey allegedly stole the money, but has not been convicted.