DuBois Employee Pleads Guilty in Federal Case Alleging $1.5 Million Theft From City Funds

A former DuBois city employee has pleaded guilty in a federal corruption case tied to the alleged theft and laundering of more than $1.5 million in city funds.

Roberta Shaffer, who served as an administrative secretary for the city, entered guilty pleas Wednesday in federal court to one count of embezzlement and one count of unlawful monetary transaction. Prosecutors have accused Shaffer and former DuBois City Manager John “Herm” Suplizio of diverting public money through bank accounts that were allegedly hidden from city council members and auditors.

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Federal investigators allege the funds were used for personal expenses, cash withdrawals and other transactions that formed the basis of money-laundering allegations.

Shaffer faces sentencing on Sept. 22 and could be ordered to pay restitution. Suplizio has pleaded not guilty and his federal case remains pending.

The plea marks a significant development in one of the most closely watched public-corruption cases in western Pennsylvania and could shape the next phase of the government’s case against former city leadership.

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