October 7, 2025 – CBI – Aguilar, CO – The Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI), in coordination with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Office of Inspector General (OIG) and the Las Animas County Sheriff's Office, announced today that Tyra Marie Avila, 47, is facing multiple felony charges following an investigation into the misuse of public funds intended for the Town of Aguilar's vital water project.
Ms. Avila, who served as the Town Administrator, Clerk, and Treasurer for 17 years before resigning in September 2024, is accused of diverting over $26,000 in public funds to her personal bank accounts. The investigation found that money from federal loans and grants earmarked for the Augmentation Reservoir project was allegedly commingled with the Town's general fund and used for unauthorized personal transactions and other town expenses, ultimately leaving contractors for the critical water project unpaid.
Criminal Charges Filed
The charges filed against Tyra Marie Avila include:
- Theft ($20,000 < $100,000) – Class 4 Felony
- Cybercrime ($20,000 < $100,000) – Class 4 Felony
- Embezzlement of Public Property – Class 5 Felony
- Forgery – Class 5 Felony
- Fraud by Check (< $2,000) – Misdemeanor
The Town of Aguilar has since taken steps to implement stricter financial controls, including establishing a separate account for the water project accessible only by the current Mayor and a USDA official, to ensure the project can move forward.
Ms. Avila posted a $15,000.00 bond after turning herself in to law enforcement. Her next court date has not yet been set.
The charges are merely an accusation, and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
(Tyra Marie Avila- Courtesy: Las Animas County Sheriff's Office)