Employee Steals Salary From Avaya

CNNMoney.com has published its “Dumbest Moments in Business 2009,” and Avaya has made the list.

Apparently, Anthony Armatys accepted a position with Avaya in 2002, but then backed out before his start date. But thanks to already being input in the payroll system, Armatys began receiving his six-figure salary via direct deposit anyway. He decided it was best not to inform Avaya, and they continued to pay him for five years.

An investigation was launched when Armatys attempted to make an early withdrawal from his 401(k), which eventually led to his arrest. He then plead guilty to theft and could face up to six years in prison. And, oh yeah, he also was ordered to pay Avaya back for the $470,995.53 he received.