Libby fraud trial to begin today

Special to the Inter Lake

LIBBY - After five continuances delayed the criminal trial for more than a year, jury selection will begin today for a former Libby businessman accused of swindling people and embezzling more than $400,000.

William A. Dancer is accused of funneling money from his former employer, Sagle, Idaho-based Independence Home Center, into accounts for his own business and personal property ventures.

As IHC's local sales manager, Dancer allegedly used checks from six manufactured home buyers to pay for two vehicles, a clothing store and discount store, according to court documents.

He is being charged with money laundering and six counts of embezzlement.

The trial is scheduled to last seven days.

If convicted, Dancer could face up to 20 years in prison and $50,000 in fines for money laundering charge and up to 10 years in prison and $50,000 in fines for each count of embezzlement.