The investigation into the $10 million theft at the state Department of Revenue has been turned over to the Denver grand jury, which will look into whether others were involved in the scheme, prosecutors said today.
Earlier this month, prosecutors charged Department of Revenue supervisor Michelle Cawthra and an alleged accomplice, Hysear Don Randell, with counts of theft, embezzlement of public property, conspiracy and violating the Colorado Organized Crime Act in connection with the losses.
Cawthra, described as Randell’s girlfriend, is suspected of funneling up to $10 million in tax refunds into fraudulent accounts controlled by Randell.
But Joe Morales, who heads the Denver District Attorney’s economic crime unit, said the grand jury is now attempting to determine if others may have been involved in the scheme.
The grand jury is hearing more evidence and seeking additional bank records, Morales said shortly after the two defendants appeared in court.
Lynn Kimbrough, spokeswoman for the DA’s office, said that the grand jury has formal investigative tools that will assist in the investigation.
They include the power to subpoena records and individuals and compel people to testify.
Morales and Kimbrough said that the grand jury started its investigation earlier this month.
Cawthra, 30, was arrested on April 28 and Randall was arrested on May 1 .
Staff writer Howard Pankratz can be reached at 303-954-1939 or hpankratz@denverpost.com.
