A Brenham resident has been charged with misappropriating federal grant funds, according to an announcement by U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei. Clifford Wayne Robertson, 59, is set to appear before U.S. Magistrate Judge Richard W. Bennett on July 28.
Robertson is accused of misusing federal grants allocated to Castle Cares Community Ministry Inc., operating as The Warrior’s Refuge, a nonprofit serving veterans. During his time as CEO and executive director, Robertson allegedly submitted applications for assistance from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and Department of Labor (DOL) between February and April 2020. These applications reportedly resulted in approximately $1.3 million from the VA and $500,000 from the DOL being awarded to The Warrior’s Refuge.
The charges claim that Robertson embezzled some of these funds for personal expenses and for counseling services he did not provide to veterans.
If found guilty, Robertson could face up to 10 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
The investigation was conducted by the VA - Office of Inspector General (OIG), DOL - OIG, and Texas Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Shirin Hakimzadeh is handling the prosecution.
It is important to note that a criminal information is merely an accusation and not evidence; Robertson remains presumed innocent unless proven guilty through due process.
