Former SIU worker admits fraud

EDWARDSVILLE -- Sentencing will be in January for a man who admits making personal use of tens of thousands of dollars in federal grant money while working for Southern Illinois University in Edwardsville.

Forty-year-old Korey Rush of Swansea pleaded guilty in federal court Thursday to wire fraud, misapplication of federal funds and witness tampering.

Rush had been the university's assistant program director in its federally funded East St. Louis program meant to help disadvantaged high school students and dropouts reach college.

The indictment alleges that he used grants in 2007 to buy gift cards, electronics, alcohol, groceries and other items. He also was accused of urging a family friend to lie to investigators.

Authorities say he spent nearly $28,000 while subordinates spent $2,300 more with his approval.