No-show worker in Norfolk identified

NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) - WAVY.com has uncovered the identity of a worker accused of receiving and cashing paychecks from a Norfolk agency for 12 years, even though she never showed up for work.

Jill McGlone of Norfolk used to work for the Norfolk Community Services Board (CSB), a taxpayer funded agency.  Norfolk officials said for the last 12 years the agency has been paying her $25,000 to $40,000 a year with full benefits even though McGlone was not coming to work. Also, she was given regular pay raises, according to officials, who added that McGlone was infact spending the unearned money.

McGlone has not been charged with any crime at this time.

"I think that's terrible," said CSB employee Tabitha Brimfield. "If somebody was getting paid and they weren't really working here, maybe it was a mistake that somebody made, but that's a huge mistake."

WAVY.com spoke with other employees who say what McGlone is accused of is wrong.

"If somebody is collecting money and you're not working, that is wrong," Brimfield added. "You don't need to be doing that."

We took our questions to George Pratt. He served as Executive Director of the Community Services Board for 10 years.

"I don't have any earthly idea how something like that could have happened," Pratt said. "I don't think it is possible."

Norfolk officials also told WAVY.com that several other employees inside the Norfolk Community Services Board are being reviewed for allowing the situation to happen and go on for so long. It is expected that the agency will take action against several employees.

"There were multiple procedures in place to build a budget and for how people to get their salaries," Pratt added.

WAVY.com spoke briefly with McGlone's husband at their Norvella Heights home on Friday. He said he was surprised by the allegations that his wife has been taking free money for nothing, but he did not deny anything. He refused to comment any further.

City Attorney Bernard Pishko said it is possible McGlone will have to repay some or all of the money. He is expected to pass his investigation on to the Norfolk Commonwealth's Attorney very soon so that prosecutors can decide whether anyone will be charged with a crime.