Former Pennsylvania Bank Employee Accused of Stealing $101,246 by Opening Fake Accounts in Other People’s Names for 20 Years

A former bank employee in Pennsylvania is accused of stealing more than $111,000 by opening fake accounts over a 20-year period.

Todd Michael Jones, 49, of Unity Township faces charges of theft, forgery, identity theft, and misapplying financial institution property, says Pennsylvania State Police.

A criminal complaint alleges Jones opened multiple First National Bank (FNB) accounts in the names of five people from September of 2006 through February of this year.

Between August 12th and August 17th, the alleged victims visited a branch just outside Greensburg and filed 19 disputes totaling $101,246 over unauthorized withdrawals and account closures.

Surveillance footage allegedly shows Jones was present during the withdrawals and received the cash.

The bank has reported a total loss of $111,246.10.

Jones has posted $50,000 in unsecured bail and is not in custody.

A preliminary hearing is set for December 16th, before Magisterial District Court Judge Scott A. Fanchalsky.

The bank says it thoroughly investigates allegations of fraud or employee misconduct and will not comment on the specifics of the ongoing case.

Says FNB Chief Communications Officer Jennifer Reel,

“We … ensure that appropriate action is taken when warranted, including termination and involvement of law enforcement.”

Reel also says FNB has “strong” fraud prevention systems designed to detect, prevent and investigate suspicious activity.

“Protecting our customers remains one of our top priorities.”