Watch CBS News

San Jose Cop, Ex-Cop Accused Of Stealing $120K From Charity

SAN JOSE (CBS/AP) - Two men are accused of stealing $120,000 intended for student scholarships while working for a charitable organization tied to their jobs as San Jose police officers.

Officer Marco Ybarra was arrested Tuesday, along with former officer Manual Villagrana, on suspicion of grand theft.

Both were leaders in the Latino Peace Officers Association of Santa Clara County. Investigators believe Ybarra stole $40,000 from the organization's coffers, and Villagrana stole $80,000.

Police said the theft was discovered after an audit showed money began disappearing shortly after Villagrana took over as president in 2005.

According to a police affidavit, both have denied the thefts.

KCBS' Melissa Culross Reports:

Villagrana was recently fired by the department, but police declined to disclose the reason.

Police said they have not recovered the stolen funds.

(Copyright 2011 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.