Feds Seize Assets, Cash From Woman Accused In $15M Embezzlement Scheme

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- New details are emerging about how a former treasurer specialist at a company with a local office allegedly pulled off a $15 million embezzlement scheme.

The feds seized millions in assets and cash Wednesday from the suspect, Cindy Mills.

Agents took a yacht, cars, cash and investment funds from the 35-year Matthews International employee who is described as "a lady who always brought doughnuts to work."

In the civil forfeiture complaint filed by federal prosecutors, authorities reported the seizure of millions of dollars in cash and assets from Gary and Cindy Mills.

According to the complaint, Mills is under investigation for "wire fraud, mail fraud, bank fraud, money laundering and tax evasion, all relating to the embezzlement of funds from her former employer Matthews International Corporation."

KDKA talked to Mills' attorney Phil DiLucente several weeks ago.

KDKA's Marty Griffin: "Federal agents were at her house three times... asset forfeiture is what I'm being told."

DiLucente: "I don't know where you're getting that information. I'm not going to confirm or deny any type of the actions that are taken."

According the filings, federal agents came to the Mills' home and seized several cars, including two Mercedes. Federal agents also seized a yacht valued at more than $600,000.

They also froze all assets, including one account with more than $700,000 and in another account with nearly $300,000.

Also named in the seizure is Gary Mills, Cindy's husband, who owns a charter boat fishing company in Erie, Pennsylvania. He has not been named as a suspect in any investigation.

Meantime, Cindy Millis is accused of stealing more than $15 million from Matthews International.

"She's always been a good employee," said DiLuncente. "I can tell you she's no longer with the company. I can tell you I'm representing her, I can tell you there's an investigation."

DiLucente offered no comment regarding Wednesday's seizures.

In the civil forfeiture complaint, federal authorities allege $4 million in fraud from 2013 to 2015. This investigation dates back to 2003 and the total amount allegedly taken is $15 million.

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