Greg Bell, son of former Columbus Zoo CFO, pleads guilty in theft scandal
A fifth Columbus Zoo and Aquarium employee pleaded guilty to theft Monday in a $2.3 million criminal case that found former zoo executives had created a web of theft, coverups and bartering using misappropriated zoo funds.
Grant Bell, the son of former Columbus Zoo Chief Financial Operator Greg Bell and a former purchasing assistant for the zoo, pleaded guilty to one fifth-degree felony count of theft in the Delaware County Court of Common Pleas during an arraignment Monday morning.
Prosecutors accused Bell of using $1,000 to $7,500 worth of zoo property outside the scope of its intended purpose, The Dispatch previously reported.
Bell could be ordered to spend up to a year in prison or pay a $2,500 fine at his sentencing hearing on Sept. 9.
Bell is the fifth and final Columbus Zoo employee to plead guilty as a part of a $2.3 million theft and bribery scheme perpetuated by former zoo leaders, a spokesperson for Attorney General Dave Yost's office said.
Former zoo officials used the nonprofit's funds and resources to go on lavish outings and vacations, buy luxury items and barter for expensive concert and sports tickets, The Dispatch previously reported.
Other Columbus zoo employees charged in criminal case
Greg Bell, the zoo's former CFO and Grant Bell's father pleaded guilty to 14 felony counts that included charges of conspiracy, aggravated theft and 11 counts of tampering with records in October 2023.
Tom Stalf, the zoo's former CEO, pleaded guilty to 11 felony counts of tampering with records, one count of theft by deception, one count of conspiracy and one count of telecommunications fraud in late July.
Tracy Murnane, the zoo's former director of purchasing, pleaded guilty to six felony charges related to theft and misappropriation of zoo funds in early July.
Pete Fingerhunt, the zoo's former marketing director, pleaded guilty to 16 felonies and one misdemeanor in early July.
NHart@dispatch.com
@NathanRHart
This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Columbus Zoo theft scandal: Greg Bell pleads guilty
