MERCED – California Attorney General Xavier Becerra today announced the arrest of Joseph Deliman, for allegedly embezzling more than $80,000 from the Merced Police Officers' Association (MPOA) over a three-year period. While serving on the MPOA Board, Deliman allegedly utilized MPOA funds for personal expenses and personal vacations, including trips to Las Vegas and Niagara Falls. 

“We have zero tolerance for public officials who abuse their authority to enrich themselves,” said Attorney General Becerra. “The California Department of Justice will continue to hold accountable individuals in positions of trust who betray Californians.”

Deliman, a retired police officer for the Merced Police Department, was arrested on October 30, 2018, following a year long investigation by the California Department of Justice. Deliman was booked into the Merced County Jail on $20,000 bail. The Attorney General’s office filed a criminal complaint and charged Deliman with grand theft. The arraignment is scheduled for November 30, 2018.

It is important to note that a criminal complaint contains charges that must be proven in a court of law. Every defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.