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FORT LAUDERDALE - A confession of embezzlement by the former chief financial officer of AIDS Project Florida has prompted the suspension of $1.5-million in government funding and an audit.
William Diamond acknowledged earlier this month through his lawyer that, during his two years on the job, he took tens of thousands of dollars from the nonprofit social service agency. He left his job three weeks ago.
Broward County officials are examining that period, from February 2003 to March 2005. Until the audit is complete, AIDS Project Florida will not be eligible for taxpayer funding. The agency has an annual budget of $5.2-million.
AIDS Project Florida executive director Will Spencer gave county officials an internal audit that turned up $59,000 in "fraudulent disbursements" signed by Diamond.
The county's auditors will review the internal report and recommend further action to the county commission, said William Green, the county's Human Services Section Manager.
The Fort Lauderdale Police Department had no record of a criminal complaint against Diamond. His lawyer, Bruce Lyons, said he expects a criminal investigation soon.
AIDS Project Florida provides therapeutic, legal and medical services for 3,000 people with HIV or AIDS in South Florida.