DELAWARE COUNTY, Ohio — The son of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium’s former chief financial officer pleaded guilty Monday in connection to the investigation into the alleged misuse of zoo funds and resources.
Grant Bell, a former purchasing assistant, pleaded guilty to one count of theft in the fraud investigation, according to Attorney General Dave Yost's office. He is the son of Greg Bell, who pleaded guilty in October to 14 felony charges, including aggravated theft, conspiracy and tampering with records. Greg will be sentenced on Sept. 19.
Grant worked closely with Tracy Murnane, who pleaded guilty to felony charges of grand theft, complicity in the commission of an offense, forgery, telecommunications fraud and filing incomplete, false and fraudulent tax returns. Murnane has to pay $90,000 in restitution after accepting a plea agreement. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Sept. 23.
Grant was the fifth and final defendant to be charged in the investigation.
Tom Stalf, the zoo’s former chief executive officer, changed his plea to guilty last week. He accepted an agreement and pleaded guilty to 15 felonies, including aggravated theft, conspiracy, telecommunications fraud and tampering with records. Stalf will be sentenced on Oct. 14.
Pete Fingerhut, the former zoo marketing director, pleaded guilty to 16 felony charges and one misdemeanor. He will be sentenced on Sept. 23.
The defendants are alleged to have defrauded the zoo of more than $2.29 million and used the money for personal benefits.