Boulder County, Colo. - Following an internal audit and investigation by the University of Colorado Boulder, the University of Colorado Boulder Police Department conducted a criminal investigation into allegations of Theft, Embezzlement, and Official Misconduct. Based on that investigation, the District Attorney’s Office and Police Department are moving forward with criminal charges and prosecution.
On July 22, 2025, CU Boulder Athletic Director Rick George notified the University’s Department of Internal Audit (IA) of concerns regarding possible fiscal misconduct by Cory Randall Hilliard (DOB: 08/02/1972). At the time, Hilliard served as the designated administrator of the University’s Nike Elite program, responsible for managing employee product benefit allocations.
The University of Colorado Boulder investigation revealed that between 2021 and 2025, Hilliard misappropriated University‑provided Nike Elite funds for his personal use, which is a violation of the agreement. The University of Colorado Boulder conducted a detailed review that included financial records, interviews with Athletics Department personnel, and analysis of transaction histories associated with Hilliard’s Nike Elite account. Ultimately, the investigation determined that Hilliard’s actions resulted in a confirmed loss of $9,510.50 to the University.
The CU Boulder Police Department conducted its own independent investigation which included reviewing financial materials and interviewing numerous University personnel. In addition, they have worked closely with the District Attorney’s Office throughout this investigation.
The District Attorney’s Office filed the following charges:
- Count One: Theft (F5)
- Count Two: Embezzlement of Public Property (F5)
- Count Three: First Degree Official Misconduct (M1)
District Attorney Michael Dougherty stated, “In any case involving possible Official Misconduct, the community trust requires a thorough investigation. So, I truly appreciate the hard work, dedication, and collaboration of the CU Police Department.
CUPD Chief Ashley Griffin stated, “The CU Boulder Police Department would like to thank the Boulder County District Attorney’s Office for its steadfast support in prosecuting financial crimes. CU Boulder does not tolerate fiscal misconduct in any form and once CUPD was notified it took immediate investigative action.”
As in every criminal case, these charges are merely an accusation, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless or until proven guilty.