DANVILLE — The Danville school board voted unanimously on Wednesday evening to terminate the recently suspended food-service director, who is accused of stealing thousands of dollars from the district.
The expected action came a week after the board approved putting Gregory A. Lazzell on unpaid leave, and five days after the Vermilion County State's Attorney's Office formally charged him with theft of government property between $10,000 and $100,000, a Class 1 felony.
Lazzell, 51, of Danville also faces one count of official misconduct and five counts of intimidation, which are Class 3 felonies.
School officials have declined to comment, citing the criminal case.
According to State's Attorney Jacqueline Lacy, the alleged theft took place over several years. It was discovered in the last few months through a combined investigation by the school district and Danville police.
Lazzell is scheduled to appear in court on Oct. 5. He is free on a $100,000 bond.
If convicted of the most serious charge, Lazzell could be sentenced to four to 15 years in prison or probation. The other charges carry a sentence of two to five years in prison or probation.
Lazzell ran the food-service department from April 2011 until his suspension. His annual salary was $78,195.
