Former Homewood Finance Director sentenced to 37 months for million dollar theft

ABC 33/40 NEWS EXCLUSIVE – A federal judge sentenced former Homewood Finance Director Robert Burgett to 37 months in prison for a massive theft of city tax dollars. That sentence will be followed by three years supervised release.

Burgett was also ordered to pay restitution of $947,059 to the city and its insurance company. Burgett’s attorney says his client will be on a payment plan once he is released from prison. Burgett had previously plead guilty to charges related to the theft.

Prior to the sentencing, Burgett told the court he did not have the words to express how regretful he is for the innocent people he damaged and the taxpayers of Homewood. He said he destroyed his life.

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The U.S. Attorney’s Office cited aggravating factors in the case that included a motive of greed, repetition of the crime, and Burgett’s position of trust and privilege. “He had other options, he knew better.”

Burgett was able to transfer money from city accounts to his private accounts.

Homewood’s Mayor Alex Wyatt spoke to the court saying it was difficult to describe the amount of pain Burgett had caused. He asked for the maximum sentence. Wyatt explained the stolen money was only part of the problem stating Burgett had “undermined confidence in the government.” Wyatt along with city council members and employees attended Wednesday’s sentencing. Wyatt said the city continues to find problems due to Burgett’s incompetence.

Burgett still faces state charges. He is to report to federal prison by June 25th.

The theft case exposed other deficiencies in Homewood’s accounting oversight and procedures.