Former Boaz Housing Authority Comptroller Charged with Theft of HUD Funds

BIRMINGHAM -- Federal prosecutors on Thursday charged the former comptroller for the Boaz Housing Authority with stealing federal Housing and Urban Development funds, announced U.S. Attorney Joyce White Vance and HUD Special Agent in Charge Nadine E. Gurley.

            The one-count information filed in U.S. District Court charges STANLEY J. KNOP, 47, of Crossville, with stealing HUD funds from Aug. 4, 2010, through Oct. 25, 2013, while he was comptroller of the Boaz Housing Authority, which receives HUD funding. The United States seeks forfeiture of $160,618 that has been identified as proceeds of the theft.

            “The U.S. Attorney’s Office is dedicated to holding accountable corrupt public employees who steal federal funds entrusted to their oversight," Vance said. "The substantial sum stolen from the Boaz Housing Authority was much needed by that community, but it was deprived of those funds by the acts of a selfish individual. This prosecution can see that those funds are restored to the community,” she said.

“The charges today demonstrate our commitment to combat the theft of HUD funds, especially when the funds involved are earmarked to assist our neediest families," Gurley said. "The United States Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General, will continue to partner with other federal, state and local authorities to ensure that corrupt individuals do not use their positions to enrich themselves at the government’s expense," she said.

            Knop could face a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine if convicted of the theft.

            HUD-OIG and the FBI investigated the case, which Assistant U.S. Attorney Laura D. Hodge is prosecuting.

            The public is reminded that an indictment or information contains only charges. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.