By Shereen Siewert
A trial for the former manager of a downtown apartment complex accused of stealing more than $181,000 from the business to fund his drug habit will move forward, after a hearing this week in Wausau.
Mark R. Meurette, 63, faces felony charges of theft in a business setting greater than $100,000 in a case filed Feb. 26. The charges were filed following an investigation of Meurette’s financial reports at the Landmark Apartments, 221 Scott St., in Wausau.
Investigators say Meurette initially admitted stealing about $15,000 in rent money, but a forensic accountant later estimated the thefts at a much higher amount.
In addition to stealing cash rent money, Meurette allegedly falsified his work records and was paid about $17,675 for hours he never worked, court records state. Investigators compared his stated hours with security camera footage to confirm the thefts, police said. The total loss to the business, including accounting fees, is estimated at $181,000.
On Tuesday, Meurette waived his right to a preliminary hearing. Circuit Judge Greg Strasser found probable cause and bound Meurette over for trial.
Meurette remains free on a signature bond. Future court dates have not yet been set.
