An accountant for a Port Huron-based agency is accused of embezzling over a million dollars from his employer. Richard Laurence Hartwick, a 71 year old from Okemos who worked as an accountant for the Blue Water Center for Independent Living, will face multiple charges including racketeering and embezzlement. According to the Port Huron Police Department, Hartwick was arrested at his Lansing area home this past Friday with the help of the Michigan State Police. Authorities also say the suspect was previously convicted in 2000 for embezzling over $3-million from a Detroit area auto supplier. A probable cause hearing for Hartwick will be held next Tuesday, April 9th, in St. Clair County District Court. Authorities are asking anyone with information about Hartwick and his alleged crimes to contact the Michigan State Police Lapeer Post at 664-2905 or the Port Huron Police Department at 984-5383.
