Former Yale University employee charged with operating a kickback scheme

NEW HAVEN, Conn. – A former Yale University employee has been charged with operating a kickback scheme while he worked at the school.

The U.S. Attorney's office said Monday that 57-year-old George Dobuzinsky of Durham was charged with conspiracy and fraud offenses.

Prosecutors say the former university project manager arranged to receive tens of thousands of dollars in kickback payments from vendors in exchange for awarding them additional audio/visual project work. Authorities say he also requested and received gifts from vendors, including steakhouse gift certificates and electronic equipment for personal use.

Dobuzinsky pleaded not guilty in Bridgeport and was released on a $300,000 bond. His attorney called him a hard worker who did not steal anything from Yale.