CPD: Man Stole Thousands From Columbus Employer

COLUMBUS - Columbus Police say a man cost his employer thousands of dollars in a furniture scam. Michael Schnelle, 43, of Clarkson was a manager of a Columbus retailer that sells furniture and appliances, says an affidavit. Police were prompted to do an investigation, after the store found out they were suffering from a loss of $100,000 due to missing retail, says an affidavit. Schnelle allegedly created several fake accounts, using local customers social security numbers with fake names, and would purchase items with the accounts. Schnelle is also alleged to have used cash and credit card payments from customers to distribute minimum payments to the fake accounts, said employees to police. Schnelle reportedly gave thousands of dollars worth of stolen furniture from the business to a local woman, and told her not to worry about making payments. Schnelle also is alleged to have resold furniture from the store as "used" furniture, says court documents. Schnelle is facing a felony theft charge, a charge for theft by deception, and two felony charges for identity theft, says court records. He is due for a status hearing on January 11th.