Former South Bend City Official Sentenced in Theft Case

OLYMPIA -- A former City of South Bend official was sentenced to 16 months in prison in Pacific County Superior Court today for stealing more than $153,000 in city funds. Colleen K. Mason pleaded guilty in November to five counts of first degree theft and one count of second degree theft.

In court today, Judge Mark F. McCauley also ordered Mason to pay $153,379.36 in restitution to the City of South Bend, $110 in court costs and a $500 crime victims' compensation assessment.

As the South Bend's clerk-treasurer, Mason was responsible for receiving, collecting and depositing funds on behalf of the city and maintaining the city financial records and payroll records. The thefts occurred between January 1, 1988 and December 31, 1993

The investigation and prosecution was conducted by the Attorney General's Office at the request of the Pacific County Prosecuting Attorney. The AG's Office was assisted by the state Auditor's Office and city officials.

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