Former Columbus Zoo CFO Sentenced to Prison

Greg Bell, the former chief financial officer of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, has been sentenced to three years in prison for his involvement in a fraud scheme that defrauded the zoo of nearly $2.4 million over a decade. Bell pleaded guilty to 14 felony counts, including aggravated theft, conspiracy, and tampering with records, and was ordered to pay restitution of $583,697. He is the first of five former zoo executives to be sentenced, with others yet to face the court. Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost emphasized that Bell's actions exploited taxpayer trust and served as a warning to others. Bell's cooperation with prosecutors may influence the sentencing of the remaining executives involved in the case. His lawyer noted that Bell is relieved and looks forward to repaying his debt to society.