Biloxi man admits embezzling tens of thousands of dollars from former employer
A Biloxi man is set for sentencing later this year after pleading guilty to a felony embezzlement charge involving the theft of tens of thousands of dollars, according to authorities.
Biloxi police first arrested Michael Parker “Mike” Baronich, 51, in May 2024 for embezzling funds from his former employer, Ben Nelson Golf and Outdoor.
According to Biloxi police, Baronich used his position at the business to steal cash generated from sales, repairs and golf cart rentals. Authorities said he committed the crimes between November 2023 and April 2024.
Baronich repaid a portion of the stolen money — $40,000 — when he entered his guilty plea.
Harrison County Circuit Judge Randi Mueller deferred sentencing until October pending a pre-sentence investigation report to determine whether Baronich is eligible for house arrest.
The crime carries a maximum sentence of up to 20 years in prison, or a fine of up to $25,000, or both.
His sentencing is set in October. Harrison County Assistant District Attorney Meaghan Smith prosecuted the case.
