Department of Watershed Management Employees Charged With Theft

From the City of Atlanta

As part of an ongoing internal and external investigation, four employees from the City of Atlanta Department of Watershed Management were charged with theft by taking on Monday and their employment terminated.

“These sorts of actions, particularly by members of our own workforce, are an affront to our citizens,” said Commissioner Jo Ann J. Macrina. “Our residents deserve to have their investments protected, and these arrests, combined with those made in March, speak to our continuing commitment to eradicate theft. Through our collaboration with the Atlanta Police Department and the implementation of sophisticated security measures, we’re making great strides toward fulfilling that promise.”

The charges are:
· Aaron Avery, felony theft by taking
· Kenneth Carson, misdemeanor theft by taking
· Antonio Denson, felony theft by taking
· Larry Tyler, felony theft by taking

None of the four employees are supervisors. Avery, Tyler and Carson are water distribution service workers. Denson is a construction maintenance employee. The four are accused of exchanging water meters, copper and brass at recycling centers. Carson, Denson and Tyler were arrested this afternoon. A warrant has been issued for Avery’s arrest, as he did not report to work.

“The Atlanta Police Department and the Department of Watershed Management have my full support in their investigation of theft from taxpayers and the four arrests made today,” said Mayor Kasim Reed. “Unlawful activity will not be tolerated in my Administration, and swift action will be taken to protect the taxpayers and residents of the City of Atlanta.”

In October 2014, Atlanta Police Department investigators and Watershed Management partnered with Crime Stoppers Greater Atlanta, asking the public for information on any watershed related thefts. Our goal is to obtain usable leads to aid in the apprehension of offenders committing theft against Watershed Management, either internally or externally. A reward of up to $10,000 is being offered for information leading to the arrest and indictment of the person or persons responsible. Information on previous thefts or ongoing criminal activity is welcomed.

Any information can be submitted anonymously to the Crime Stoppers Atlanta tip line at 404-577-TIPS (8477), online www.crimestoppersatlanta.org or by texting CSA and the tip to CRIMES (274637). Persons are not required to give their name or any identifying information to be eligible for the reward of up to $10,000.