New Theft Conviction for Former 20-Year Texas Prosecutor

Legal Ethics

New Theft Conviction for Former 20-Year Texas Prosecutor

Posted Jun 11, 2008, 10:22 am CST
By Martha Neil

For the second time this year, a former 20-year district attorney in Rockwall County, Texas, has been convicted of stealing from the government.

Ray Sumrow, 58, shook his head in apparent disbelief when a jury convicted him yesterday of theft by a public servant, reports the Dallas Morning News. He reportedly diverted $68,000 in state funds intended for his office to his personal checking account.

Sumrow repaid the money after county officials discovered the embezzlement, and the defense contended at trial that the routing of the money into his personal account was a mistake. However, the prosecution contended that Sumrow needed the state money because of his excessive spending.

"He is spending more than he makes; it's constant," said John Schomburger, a special prosecutor in the case. "His account is bleeding. ... He has to be counseled by his banker."

Sumrow faces up to 20 years in prison when he is sentenced. He also faces a bar disciplinary hearing that could result in the loss of his license to practice law.

As discussed in a previous ABAJournal.com post, Sumrow was also convicted in March by another Texas jury of theft by a public servant, for converting $9,652.76 worth of computer equipment and purported business travel expenses for his personal use.

He was sentenced to four years in that case, but reportedly planned to appeal and was released on bond.

Additional coverage:

Dallas Morning News: "FBI financial analyst testifies against ex-Rockwall DA Ray Sumrow"

Dallas Morning News: "Rockwall County District Attorney Ray Sumrow used server for personal items, expert says"

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