Joplin company manager charged with stealing nearly $13,000 from employer

The Newton County Prosecuting Attorney's office filed a felony stealing charge today against a Joplin man who allegedly took $12,972 by making unauthorized charges on his employer's credit card.

Richard R. Carriger II (DOB 1986), manager for Midland Paper, stole the money over a five-month period between October 2023 and March 2024, according to the probable cause statement.

According to Midland Paper invoice records Carriger used the company’s credit card to purchase items from 10/05/2023 through 03/05/2024. Unauthorized uses of the company’s credit card were valued at $12,972. 

Mr. Carriger was interviewed by me on 03/12/2024. Mr. Carriger was advised of his Miranda rights and agreed to speak with me. During this interview Mr. Carriger admitted to using the company credit card to purchase personal items. He also admitted that he purchased items for the business and his residence using the company credit card. 

Mr. Carriger states that he originally purchased multiple items but later cancelled the order knowing it was wrong. Mr. Carriger admitted to using the company credit card to purchase gift cards, totaling $4,275. 

Mr. Carriger allowed me to come to his residence which is also located in Joplin, Newton County, Missouri. I recovered the Ryobi power washer, portable heater, and a Ryobi chainsaw at his residence which he willingly gave me. These items were purchased using the company’s credit card.

The case was investigated by the Joplin Police Department.