(AGUILAR, Colo.) — The Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) said on Tuesday, Oct. 7, that a former town administrator for Aguilar is facing charges, including embezzlement, for allegedly stealing funds meant for a reservoir project.

According to CBI, 47-year-old Tyra Marie Avila served as the Town Administrator, Clerk, and Treasurer for 17 years before resigning in September 2024. Avila is accused of allegedly diverting over $26,000 in public funds to her personal bank accounts. CBI’s investigation also found that money from federal loans and grants earmarked for the Augmentation Reservoir project were allegedly mixed with the Town’s general fund and used for unauthorized personal transactions and other town expenses.

Avila is facing the following charges:

Theft ($20,000 < $100,000) – Class 4 Felony

Cybercrime ($20,000 < $100,000) – Class 4 Felony

Embezzlement of Public Property – Class 5 Felony

Forgery – Class 5 Felony

Fraud by Check (< $2,000) – Misdemeanor

CBI said the Town of Aguilar has since taken steps to implement stricter financial controls, including establishing a separate account for the water project accessible only by the current Mayor and a USDA official, to ensure the project can move forward.

Avila posted a $15,000 bond after turning herself in to law enforcement. Her next court date has not been set, according to CBI.