THORNTON, Colo. — A former athletic director for Adams 12 Five Star School district was sentenced Thursday for taking $20,000 from ticket and concession sales during games.Steven Patrick Atwood, 41, was sentenced to seven years of probation, including 90 days work release to be served at the Adams County jail.
Atwood had pleaded guilty to felony embezzlement of public property in August. As part of that plea agreement, he agreed to pay $20,000 in restitution. Prosecutors said Atwood stole thousands of dollars during sporting events held from September 2008 through May 2009.
Atwood resigned from his position in June 2009 when confronted with the allegations, which were uncovered during an internal audit. He had worked for 18 years with the Adams 12 Five School District.
He started in August 1991 and held positions as the assistant football coach, a work education teacher and dean of students — all at Thornton High School. From March 2000 to September 2002, he was a districtwide driver’s education teacher. He became director of athletics and activities in September 2002.
In July 2009, the Internal Auditor for Adams County School District 12 met with Thornton police regarding concern over discrepancies in money collected at school functions. Atwood was responsible for collecting and depositing money for school sporting events.Financial reports generated by Atwood showed larger amounts collected than deposited.
“This case is beyond mere embezzlement or theft. It is a violation of trust,” said District Attorney Don Quick. “This man stole from students, tax payers and the school district. In addition, given the current school budget situation, especially with teachers positions and salaries being cut, embezzling from a school is a particularly callous crime.”
