A former Farmersville police sergeant faces felony charges for allegedly embezzling funds from programs he managed during his tenure, the Tulare County District Attorney’s Office said in a news release Wednesday.

Rafael “Ralph” Vasquez, 51, was charged on Monday with two counts of felony grand theft by embezzlement and two counts of felony grand theft.

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Prosecutors allege that between 2018 and 2023, Vasquez diverted approximately $35,000 from accounts associated with the Farmersville Police Department’s explorer program and the Farmersville Police Officer’s Association, where he served as adviser and treasurer.

The investigation began in August 2023, when Farmersville Police Chief Jay Brock raised concerns to the Tulare County DA’s Office.

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The DA’s Bureau of Investigations Forensic Fraud Unit reviewed bank records, conducted interviews with current and former city employees, and executed multiple search warrants as part of their inquiry.

On Wednesday, Vasquez surrendered to investigators, was booked into the Tulare County Pre-Trial facility, and released on $60,000 bail.

His arraignment is set for Jan. 9, 2025, in Superior Court.

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If convicted, Vasquez could face up to three years in local jail and be ordered to pay restitution, officials said. Statutes preclude state prison for these charges.

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The investigation is ongoing.

Authorities urge anyone with information to contact the Tulare County District Attorney’s Bureau of Investigations at (559) 636-5410.