A 22-year Fullerton PD civilian employee was arrested today for grand theft. The theft was discovered by another employee, who immediately reported it, and an investigation began.

Fullerton Police Acting Chief Dan Hughes said that April Baughman, 52 years-old, was arrested this afternoon after it was discovered that she had been stealing money from the property room for about two years.

Chief Hughes said he was notified today at about 11:30 a.m. that there was a discrepancy in the cash count from a money supply kept in the property room. An investigation immediately began, which confirmed the shortage, and focused on Baughman as the primary suspect. As the investigation continued, it became apparent that Baughman was the person responsible for the theft. She was arrested by officers, transported to the Orange County Jail, and booked.

The thefts are believed to have occurred between 2009 and mid-2011. The exact dollar amount is not known at this time.

Chief Hughes said that this theft was uncovered by a sworn department employee, who

immediately reported the discrepancy to his division commander.

“When there are violations of public trust, or actions which result in the reduction of confidence in the police department, disciplinary action will be taken swiftly and decisively”, Hughes said.

Chief Hughes will be available for additional comments or questions Friday morning. He can be reached by calling (714) 738-6840.