Editor’s note: This story was updated to identify Jason Woodward as a former fiscal specialist for University of Toledo’s Minority Business Development Center.
A former University of Toledo employee accused of stealing thousands of dollars will be screened for a spot in a diversion program.
If granted, his criminal charge would be dismissed upon completion of the program.
Jason Woodward is charged with theft in office, according to Lucas County Common Pleas Court records. During Mr. Woodward’s court appearance Wednesday, his attorney, Paul Geller, argued the diversion program would allow him to pay restitution while not hurting his future employment opportunities.
Mr. Woodward’s arraignment was postponed pending his diversion screening.
“People make mistakes,” Mr. Geller said.
The allegations stem from approximately 2013 to 2018. Mr. Woodward had access to accounts at the UT credit union and pulled funds for personal expenses over that time, leaving a deficit of approximately $50,000, said James Tafelski, assistant Lucas County prosecutor.
Woodward resigned from his position during an investigation, Mr. Tafelski said.
According to UT records, Mr. Woodward was hired at the university in 2000 and resigned on March 12. His most recent position was as a fiscal specialist for the Minority Business Development Center.
“The University of Toledo expects employees to adhere to the highest standards,” UT officials said in a statement. “After an investigation of accounts Jason Woodward had access to, we referred the matter for criminal prosecution.”
Mr. Woodward was released on a recognizance bond. A court hearing is scheduled for July 10.
First Published June 12, 2019, 10:04 p.m.
