Library officials suspect Carrera has been taking money from the machines since November, and at least six times in the previous 30 days. Police arrested him March 20 after they watched him enter the library when it was closed and then recorded him with hidden cameras.
In police custody, Carrera confessed to one count of burglary of a building and three counts of burglary of a coin-operated machine, the Brownsville Herald reported March 22. He was released after posting $21,000 in bonds.
Carrera has worked for the library for 10 years and was recently appointed director of the system’s new Southmost branch, which is under construction and scheduled to open later this spring. City officials say further disciplinary action could be taken following an internal investigation and audit of the library copy machines.
Posted March 25, 2005.