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Susan Willis, a former case worker in the Department of Human Resources (DHR) Office of Child Support Services, pled guilty yesterday to Theft by a Government Employee in Mitchell County Superior Court. While employed by DHR, Willis stole approximately $17,031.00 in funds that had been paid by persons for child support.

“Ms. Willis was entrusted with administering child support payments for children who rely on them,” said Attorney General Sam Olens. “She violated her position of trust as a public servant and stole money from children financially dependent on the payments. While no theft is ever tolerated by an employee of the State of Georgia, the circumstances of this case are exceptionally deplorable.”

Willis was sentenced by Chief Judge Wallace Cato to 15 years, three to serve. In addition, she has been ordered to pay a $1,000 fine and full restitution. Judge Cato ordered the defendant taken into custody immediately. 

Senior Assistant Attorney General Kimberly Schwartz prosecuted Willis on behalf of the State of Georgia. The case was investigated by Sue Keenan and Randy Howard, Jr. of the Georgia Department of Human Services Office of Inspector General.