Teresa Yarborough-Walker

A senior living manager who created imaginary employees has pleaded guilty to fraudulently obtaining almost a half million dollars.

Teresa Yarborough-Walker had been employed as a human resources manager at a Genesis senior living center in South Carolina. In all, she admitted to stealing $416,257.

She obtained the money by creating fictitious employees and forwarding their salaries to herself, according to a statement by the U.S. Attorney’s Office. In addition, Yarborough-Walker changed payroll software so reports about these non-existing workers would not be forwarded to company management.

She was charged with breach of trust with fraudulent intent and first-degree computer crimes. This came after an audit revealed the alleged deception.

Sentencing is pending. She faces up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.