Judge sentences ex-treasurer of Ohio charter schools to 2 years

COLUMBUS (AP) — A former treasurer to more than a dozen Ohio charter schools has been sentenced to two years in prison for embezzling more than $470,000 in federal education funds from four schools over six years.

Carl W. Shye Jr., 57, of New Albany, must also repay the funds he stole.

U.S. District Court Judge Gregory Frost said he picked a sentence that would send a strong message to others contemplating stealing money from public schools and their students, while recognizing the good Shye has done in other areas of his life.

Shye’s sentence, which includes three years of probation after prison, was lighter than the 30 to 37 months recommended by guidelines.

Federal prosecutor Doug Squires said Shye’s actions jeopardized the public’s trust in Ohio’s community schools.