Watch CBS News

Grand Jury Charges Former Denver Sheriff's Commander With Theft, Tax Evasion

DENVER (CBS4) - CBS4 has learned that Michael Than, a former division chief with the Denver Sheriff's Department has been arrested and charged with felony theft, tax evasion, and filing false tax returns after being indicted last week by a Jefferson County Grand Jury.

Than has been released from jail on $10,000. Bond.

Than was one of the highest ranking members of the Denver Sheriff's Department but resigned suddenly last December after being placed on investigative leave. He was with DSD for 21 years.

An attorney for Than said Monday afternoon there would be "no comment" on the charges and the case against Than.

According to court documents, the alleged crimes spanned 2010, 2011, 2012 and 2013.

The Denver Sheriff's Department and other law enforcement authorities have steadfastly declined to discuss the Than case as the investigation progressed.

But two sources familiar with the case told CBS4 that Than was accused of repeatedly stealing valuable tax software from area Target stores, then concealing the tax software in bags of dog food which he would purchase from the big box stores. He is then accused of selling the stolen tax software on eBay.

Court documents show Than was indicted last Thursday and turned himself into law enforcement authorities Friday.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.