The City of Homewood’s former finance director has pleaded guilty to three counts of wire fraud after allegedly embezzling close to $1 million in city funds.
According to federal documents, Robert Winston Burgett of Helena, stole about $950,000 between May 2023 and March 2024. He was originally arrested in early April of this year by authorities on an aggravated theft by deception charge, which is a Class A felony. That charge is still pending.
The United States Attorney’s Office issued a statement revealing Burgett’s actions that led to the charges.
“Burgett concealed his conduct by first moving the City’s funds into a commercial bank account he controlled before transferring the funds into his personal account. Burgett also altered City bank account statements and made false journal entries in City accounting records. Burgett ultimately used the embezzled funds for personal purposes.”
RELATED: Homewood finance director arrested for allegedly stealing city money before retiring
Attorney Tommy Spina is representing Burgett.
“Today, Mr. Burgett publicly acknowledged and accepted full responsibility for his actions that resulted in the defrauding of the city of Homewood,” said Spina. “He is deeply remorseful for the breach of trust he has caused to the city, its officials, and the residents he served. He understands the gravity of his actions and the impact they have had on the community.”
“He sincerely apologizes for his behavior and the disappointment it has brought to so many. Moving forward, he is committed to making amends and contributing positively to the community. He accepts the consequences of his actions and hopes to learn from this experience as a means to foster accountability and integrity.
Shortly before being arrested, Burgett retired from the position after thirteen years.
The Homewood Police Department Criminal Investigation Division, the Birmingham field office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Jefferson County District Attorney’s Office have all played significant roles in working the case.
Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten
