The former manager of the Oilmen’s Club has been arrested in connection to the alleged embezzlement of almost $500,000 from the taphouse in Taber.
Police were notified about theft and possible fraud at the club back in the fall of 2014 and launched an investigation after the owner, Darcy Hertz, noticed some irregularities in the books.
“This complaint involved numerous hours of investigation, many judicial orders, and consultation with Special Prosecutions in Calgary, AB. The alleged victim in this matter has been patient as the Taber Police Service worked through the complexities of the case and I am pleased with the results of the work of our officers”, said Graham Abela, Chief of Police.
On Friday, police arrested Scott Blanchard, the former manager of the club.
Blanchard, 45, is charged with one count of Theft over $5000 and one count of Fraud over $5000.
Hertz says Blanchard was the manager for 15 years and that he was close to his family.
"Even though he wasn't my kid's uncle, both of my daughters called him uncle Scotty and both of his kids called me uncle Darce. My mom treated him like he was her own son," said Hertz.
Blanchard has been released and is expected to appear in court again on August 30, 2016.
