The U.S. Bankruptcy Court in the Northern District of Indiana has ruled a former Warsaw street superintendent must pay damages to the city.

Lacy Francis Jr. is responsible for a judgment of $955,707 – plus interest, costs, and attorneys’ fees.

Indiana Attorney General Curtis Hill was pleased with the win.

“Men and women working government jobs at all levels are entrusted to be honest stewards of public money,” Attorney General Hill said.

Francis participated in a kickback scheme involving a private contractor. He helped the company win bids on 11 city projects involving installation of new lining for sewer pipes.

The company deliberately overcharged for its work – sometimes by claiming to have done more work than what was actually performed – and shared the windfall with Francis.

Last year, Francis was convicted and sentenced to 13 years of incarceration for multiple felonies he committed as part of the scheme.

Francis has declared bankruptcy, but he must pay the judgement against him once he emerges from bankruptcy.

Actions remain ongoing against a private contractor, Pro Form Pipe Lining Co., and its owner, Marc Campbell. The Attorney General’s office says they want them to also be held responsible for misappropriated amounts, audit costs and treble damages.