Former Columbus Zoo CFO Sentenced for Fraud

Greg Bell, former CFO of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, has been sentenced to three years in prison for his role in a fraud scheme that misappropriated nearly $2.3 million over a decade. He pleaded guilty to 14 felony counts, including conspiracy and aggravated theft, and has agreed to cooperate with prosecutors against other zoo executives involved in the scandal. Bell's actions included misusing zoo funds for personal expenses, allowing family members to live in zoo-controlled housing, and falsifying records to cover up the theft. Alongside Bell, three other executives, including former CEO Tom Stalf, have also pleaded guilty and are awaiting sentencing. The investigation revealed a broader pattern of misconduct, with restitution agreements totaling $600,000 set for all involved parties. This case has raised significant concerns about the management and oversight of public funds at the zoo.