A Greece man is accused of using his access to several companies' financial accounts to make nearly $493,000 in unauthorized purchases, including property-tax payments, gift cards and electronics later sold online.
Federal prosecutors said the man worked as controller for companies under common management and concealed purchases by spreading payments across businesses and entering false information in their books.
Complaint alleges 248 unauthorized purchases
Robert Tantalo, 43, was charged by criminal complaint with wire fraud, interstate transportation of stolen goods and sale of stolen goods, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Western District of New York.
The complaint alleges that he made approximately 248 unauthorized purchases totaling $492,996.96 between February 2025 and April 2026.
Prosecutors said his job gave him access to company bank accounts and credit cards, as well as private employee information.
The alleged purchases included property taxes, Target gift cards and electronics bought through Amazon and resold on eBay.
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Tantalo resigned March 26, according to prosecutors.
Released after initial appearance
U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark Pedersen released Tantalo on conditions following his initial appearance.
The charges carry a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine, the U.S. Attorney's Office said.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan McGuire is handling the case, which was investigated by the Monroe County Sheriff's Office and Homeland Security Investigations.
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