Ely Says Malignant Tumor Found

Ventura Community College District Trustee James T. (Tom) Ely, who was recently convicted of fraud and embezzlement, said Friday he has cancer on his face and could lose part of his cheek and nose.

Ely said during an interview that doctors discovered the cancer last week when they removed a lump, which turned out to be a malignant tumor, from his cheek.

He said he plans to undergo more tests to determine the extent of the cancer. The cancer has apparently spread from the tumor, he said.

“As with all the rest of it, we are sure that we will prevail,” Ely said.

Last month, Ely was convicted of 29 counts of fraud, embezzlement and conspiracy. His wife, Ingrid, was found guilty of one count each of grand theft, conspiracy and embezzlement.

The couple, who live in Simi Valley, are scheduled to be sentenced Aug. 9. Tom Ely could spend up to six years in prison and his wife could spend up to three years in prison.