Former treasurer of Groam House Museum in Black Isle village of Rosemarkie admits embezzling almost £19,000
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The former chairman and treasurer of a popular small Black Isle museum has admitted embezzling almost £19,000 from it over three years.
Inverness Sheriff Court was told that 74-year-old William Bound faked invoices to conceal his dishonesty and banked the money in several accounts he had.
He was originally charged with embezzling £56,363.50 from Groam House Museum between November, 2013 and October, 2016.
But he ultimately pleaded guilty to £18,922.50 after extensive defence enquiries which explained the four-year delay in taking Bound to face justice, the court was told.
Fiscal depute Susan Love said that the museum is a charity and opened its Rosemarkie premises in 1990 to display important Celtic and Pictish art.
Ms Love said it housed the George Bain collection which is regarded of national importance.
She added: "The museum has a turnover of around £35,000 a year but relied on government and outer agency support, as well as fund-raising, public donations and income, up to £100,000.
"Over the years, it has had between three to seven board members, including William Bound between 2011 and 2016. He held the posts of chairman and treasurer," Ms Love went on.
She added that they were all voluntary although expenses would be reimbursed.
"After he moved on, an examination of the accounts revealed financial irregularities. Monies had been paid into his own accounts and he created false invoices for the sums which he considered he was due."
Defence advocate David Nicolson said his client had no previous convictions and a background report would be required.
Sheriff Sara Matheson agreed and deferred sentence until May 18.
Bound, of Ballyskelly House, Poyntzfield, Dingwall had his bail continued.
