Eugene, Ore. – Lawrence Vito Grella, 42, of Eugene, Oregon, pled guilty today before United States District Judge Ann Aiken for failing to pay more than $150,000 in court-ordered child support from 2003 through 2008. The offense is punishable by up to two years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Sentencing is scheduled for January 13, 2010.
Grella was indicted by a federal grand jury in September 2008. The indictment alleged that instead of making child support payments, Grella paid more than $75,000 for the support of a girlfriend, and that he bought a Rolex watch, sailboat and membership at a private swim and tennis club.
Grella will be ordered to pay all of his child support obligations. As part of the plea agreement reached with the government, Grella agreed to pay a minimum of $5,000 towards his child support obligation for the next six months.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, investigated the case. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Chris Cardani.
