Was justice served for ex-Detroit Riverfront Conservancy CFO who stole $44M?

The Metro

Was justice served for ex-Detroit Riverfront Conservancy CFO who stole $44M?

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Published on Apr 30, 2025, 6:45:02 PM
Total time: 00:35:50

Episode Description

Last week, a federal judge sentenced the former Chief Financial Officer of the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy, William Smith, to 19 years in prison for embezzling $44 million from the nonprofit over 12 years. 

The Riverfront Conservancy is a pretty prominent organization, responsible for all the changes along Detroit’s Riverwalk. So how did one man manage to dodge accountability? 

Investigative reporter Violet Ikonomova has been covering the story for the Detroit Free Press. She joined The Metro on Wednesday to provide insight into the case. Journalist, author and long-time Detroit Free Press columnist John Gallagher also joined the conversation.

Use the media player above to hear the full conversation.

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"The Metro" covers local and regional news and current affairs, arts and cultural events and topics, with a commitment to airing perspectives and uncovering stories underreported by mainstream media in Detroit.