Missouri State University Receives $1M Insurance Check From Theft

Missouri State University has recouped most of the nearly $1.2 million that was stolen from its bookstore.

The Springfield News-Leader reports that the school has received a $1 million insurance check.

University President Clif Smart says the check doesn’t negate the criminal act or minimize the damage done to the university’s reputation. But he says the money recovers a significant portion of the funds that belonged to the university and its students.

Mark Brixey of Ozark pleaded guilty in March to stealing from the bookstore he previously managed. He faces up to 43 years in prison.

The investigation into the theft began in 2012 when about $81,000 in cash was found in Brixey’s desk. Authorities say the thefts began in 2003.