Ex-Stamford worker in jail for theft seeks release

STAMFORD, Conn. (AP) - A former Stamford city employee who embezzled more than $350,000 in municipal funds is seeking an early release from his five-year prison sentence.

The Advocate of Stamford reports that former human resources employee Fred Manfredonia plans to ask the state parole board for early release on Wednesday. He's been in prison since September 2010 after pleading guilty to larceny.

Mayor Michael Pavia and town finance board members have sent letters to the Board of Paroles and Pardons saying they strongly oppose Manfredonia's request for parole. Pavia says Manfredonia's embezzlement cost taxpayers money and damaged the reputations of all city workers.

State prosecutors said Manfredonia forged and embezzled tuition reimbursement checks made out to co-workers and diverted checks given to him for deposit into city accounts for his personal use.

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Information from: The Advocate