Computer Consultant Accused Of Swindling $3.6 Million From New York City Schools
NEW YORK (1010 WINS) -- A computer consultant accused of looting millions of dollars from New York City schools posted bail and returned to his Long Island home Friday.
Willard Ross Lanham, 57, is accused of stealing $3.6 million over a six year period. That money was supposed to be used to help connect city schools to the Internet.
Lanham told 1010 WINS' Mona Rivera that he was gearing up to defend himself in court and described how devastating his arrest has been to his family.
1010 WINS' Mona Rivera Speaks With Lanham At His L.I. Home
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"It has hurt my children -- a lot. My 15-year-old daughter is over at the school today dealing with people that I'm sure hate me. So, the only thing I can tell you is I'm just looking forward to responding," he said, speaking from his home in East Northport.
On his weekly radio show, Mayor Michael Bloomberg described the alleged fraud as "unconscionable."
But Lanham believes he will be proven innocent, saying that he didn't steal any money, but saved the Department of Education at least $10 million.
"I respect Mayor Bloomberg and I respect the DOE, but I'm really looking forward to preparing a defense," he said. "I look forward to being vindicated in the federal court."
Lanham faces up to 20 years in prison if he is convicted.
