Former City of Abilene Employee Accused of Embezzling Over $150,000

Former City of Abilene employee Wesley Stawarczik, 47, was arrested and charged with second-degree felony money laundering on Wednesday, October 23, 2024, with a bond of $300,000.

In July 2024, the Abilene Police Department Fraud Unit launched a criminal investigation into Stawarczik, a former City of Abilene Water Production employee, after being notified by City officials of possible embezzlement.

City of Abilene officials flagged a suspicious transaction involving Stawarczik's City-issued purchase card (P-Card), which appeared to be linked to a subordinate employee. The transaction triggered a broader investigation into his financial dealings with the City.

The investigation uncovered suspicious purchases from 2019 to July 2024.

The combined loss to the City of Abilene is more than $150,000.00.

The Abilene Police Department and the City of Abilene continue investigating this case. Additional charges may be filed.

City Administration conducted a thorough audit of all City P-Card transactions and purchasing procedures immediately following the discovery of possible embezzlement. No other instances of misconduct have been identified through this audit process. City Administration has revised purchasing policies and procedures to safeguard against additional fraud and misconduct.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Abilene Police Department at 325-673-8331 or via email at [email protected]. Anonymous tips may be left at 325-676-TIPS (8477) or submitted online at www.abilenecrimestoppers.com.