Champaign man accused of swindling neighbor

URBANA – A Champaign man accused of swindling his ailing neighbor out of thousands of dollars is due back in court next month.

Ricky McGowan, 45. who listed an address in the 100 block of West Washington Street, was charged Wednesday with theft over $10,000.

Assistant State's Attorney Lindsey Clark said that between July 9 and Aug. 10, McGowan persuaded the man to turn over his money to McGowan for safekeeping. Clark said the victim suffers from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, which makes him subject to mental lapses. McGowan told him that the Federal Bureau of Investigation was investigating him, and therefore he should have McGowan keep his money, Clark said.

Clark said the man handed over more than $12,000.

McGowan was interviewed by Champaign police on Tuesday and admitted taking the money from the man.

Kennedy set McGowan's bond at $15,000 and ordered him to have no contact with the victim. McGowan is to be back in court Nov. 24.

If convicted of the Class 2 felony, he faces a sentence ranging from probation to three to seven years in prison.

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