A former child welfare caseworker has been arrested on suspicion of falsifying documents, submitting fraudulent reimbursement requests, and other crimes on the job.

Sandra Spraker (DOB 6/13/78), of Wellington, was hired by the Larimer County Department of Human Services (DHS) in April 2022. She completed training and began working as a Child Protection Services caseworker in October 2022. In the early summer of 2023, DHS supervisors noted performance concerns and began reviewing her assigned cases more closely. She was placed on administrative leave on September 8 and resigned on September 15, 2023.

During their internal review, DHS discovered significant inconsistencies in Spraker’s official documentation, including falsified case reports and requests for reimbursement for local travel that never happened. They reported this information to the Larimer County Sheriff’s Office, who launched a criminal investigation.

“We are proud of the internal processes and procedures we have in place to review the work of our caseworkers. This unfortunate case was found due to these internal processes and the hard work of our managers in Human Services,” stated Heather O’Hayre, Director of Larimer County Human Services. “We have over 150 caseworkers working diligently to serve families in Larimer County, and this is the first case of its kind in Larimer County Human Services. We are continuing to tighten our processes and procedures to make sure this does not happen again.” 

Following a lengthy criminal investigation, a warrant was issued in late December for the following charges:

•    Attempt to Influence a Public Servant – 10 counts (F4)
•    Forgery – Government Issued Document – 29 counts (F5)
•    Embezzlement of Public Property – 1 count (F5)
•    First Degree Official Misconduct – 29 counts (M1)
•    Abuse of Public Records – 29 counts (M2)
•    Theft – 1 count (Petty Offense)

Spraker was arrested and booked into the Larimer County Jail on December 29. A booking photo is attached. She was issued a $10,000 personal recognizance bond.

“As public servants, our job is to help the community,” said Sheriff John Feyen. “I’m grateful that DHS identified these issues and reported them to investigators. The welfare of children, especially those at risk, cannot be compromised.”

The charges are merely an accusation, and the defendant is presumed innocent until, and unless, proven guilty.