Great Lakes Wire

Evette Byrd, a 52-year-old Detroit resident, was arraigned in the 3rd Circuit Court in Wayne County on charges of embezzling over $400,000 from the Retirement System City of Detroit (RSCD). The announcement came from Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel. Byrd faces one count of Embezzlement - $100,000 or More and one count of Using a Computer to Commit a Crime. Both charges carry potential sentences of up to 20 years.

"People employed by retirement systems are entrusted to protect retirement savings and ensure those funds are used as intended," said Nessel. "My Department remains committed to holding accountable those who use their position to steal from the savings of public servants."

The allegations suggest that Byrd exploited her role within RSCD to misappropriate at least $460,000 from the system.

Attorney General Nessel charged Byrd in January, leading to her being bound over for trial earlier this month. Her next court appearance is scheduled for March 5, 2025, before Judge Donald Knapp in the 3rd Circuit Court.

It is important to note that a criminal charge is merely an allegation at this stage. The defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty. Additionally, booking photos will not be provided by the Department.