CLINTON — A former Blue Ridge School District technology coordinator was sentenced last week to 30 months in prison after he pleaded guilty in February to stealing more than $354,000 total from the district and a former employer, Special Olympics Illinois.

Joshua Raymer, 45, of Clinton, admitted to using school district funds to buy computer switches and then reselling them and keeping the money. 

Most of the money Raymer was accused of stealing was from the school district, but $17,898 was money he admitted to taking while he was employed by Special Olympics Illinois.

Wire fraud can carry a maximum sentence of 20 years. 

U.S. District Court Judge Sue Myerscough took into account letters submitted on Raymer’s behalf but also acknowledged the seriousness of the crimes.  Raymer said he intended to repay all of the money.

The current Blue Ridge Superintendent said the loss to the district extends to higher insurance rates it now pays because of the theft.