ATLANTA — Former Atlanta CFO Jim Beard has been sentenced to three years behind bars for allegedly embezzling money and falsifying tax records.
“Jim Beard abused the trust and confidence placed in him by the people of the City of Atlanta when he decided to steal tens of thousands of dollars from taxpayers to support his lavish lifestyle,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Buchanan in a press release.
Beard served as chief financial officer during former Atlanta mayor Kasim Reed’s administration from 2011 to 2018. He is one of the highest-ranking officials caught up in the city hall corruption probe.
“Beard repeatedly abused his position, broke the law he was sworn to uphold and betrayed the trust of the people of Atlanta,” ATF Assistant Special Agent in Charge Alicia D. Jones said in a press release. “This case demonstrates the partnerships of law enforcement to enforce the law and hold individuals accountable, regardless of their position or status.”
Beard pleaded guilty to federal tax program theft and tax obstruction in April. Beard previously admitted to the judge of misusing taxpayer money and using unauthorized tax deductions.