Ex-State Police trooper enters plea in embezzlement scheme

PONTIAC (AP) — A former Michigan State Police trooper who allegedly pocketed more than $170,000 in vehicle fees is awaiting sentencing after entering a plea.

Attorney General Bill Schuette’s office says Seth Swanson, 31, of Royal Oak pleaded guilty as charged to one felony count of embezzlement by a public official and one felony count of uttering and publishing false Secretary of State documents.

Sentencing is scheduled for Feb. 28.

Swanson served as a state-certified salvage vehicle inspector since 2011. A vehicle with a salvage title cannot be used on public roads until it’s recertified.

Authorities say Swanson forged documents guaranteeing a salvage vehicle has a clean title and allegedly pocketed the $100 fee from 1,701 inspections.