New York, Oct 24 – An Indian-American government employee, Mehul Goswami, 39, has been arrested on charges of “grand larceny” for allegedly holding a second full-time job while being paid for his official duties as a state employee.

Goswami, a resident of Latham, New York, was apprehended last week by a collaborative effort from the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office and the New York State Inspector General’s Office. According to the Sheriff’s Office, Goswami is accused of working a second job in the town of Malta during the hours he was supposed to be working remotely for the New York State Office of Information Technology Services. This alleged misconduct has resulted in a theft of over USD 50,000 from the state of New York.

He faces charges of “grand larceny in the 2nd degree (class C felony).” If convicted, Goswami could face a maximum prison sentence of 15 years and a fine of up to USD 15,000 or double the amount he gained financially.

New York State Inspector General Lucy Lang emphasized the importance of integrity among public employees, stating, “Mr. Goswami’s alleged conduct represents a serious breach of that trust. Working a second, full-time job while claiming to be working for the State is an abuse of public resources, including taxpayer dollars.” Lang also assured that her office will collaborate with law enforcement to hold accountable anyone undermining public service integrity in New York State.

Goswami was arraigned before the Malta Town Court and released on his own recognizance, pending further proceedings. The charge is not classified as a qualifying offense for bail under New York state law, effective January 2020. Sheriff Michael H. Zurlo expressed optimism for a successful resolution of the case in court.