University Boss Pinched £2.4 Million Over 30 Years
A University of Brighton employee has been caught red-handed after stealing over £2 million in a decades-long fraud spree.
Head of Income and Payments Took the Cash
David Hall, 64, from Ringmer, exploited his role as Head of Income and Payments to embezzle approximately £2.4 million. He cleverly masked his theft with fake entries in the university’s accounts.
Fraud Uncovered, Police Called In
The ruse collapsed in November 2021 when the university discovered the staggering fraud and promptly alerted Sussex Police. A detailed forensic investigation revealed the intricate web of lies Hall had spun to cover his tracks.
Guilty Plea Secures Court Case
Hall quickly admitted guilt and faced charges including fraud by abuse of position, employee theft, and false accounting. On 16 February at Brighton Magistrates’ Court, he pled guilty to all counts. Sentencing is set for 16 March.
Investigator Rose Horan said: “Year after year, the hole in the university’s finances became larger and more difficult for Hall to conceal. After an audit uncovered the scale of Hall’s embezzlement, the University of Brighton was quick to report the fraud to Sussex Police and their support throughout the investigation has been invaluable in bringing David Hall to justice. I would like to thank them for their cooperation and will now look ahead to the sentencing next month.”
