Oct. 4--A former bank manager has agreed to plead guilty to embezzling more than $300,000 from the Diamondhead branch of The Peoples Bank of Biloxi.

Justin W. Markham had worked at the branch about six months before he allegedly began withdrawing money from customers' loan accounts in 2005, according to federal court documents. He is accused of taking a total of $311,329.87 within 13 months.

Markham, 30, entered his intent to plead guilty and his case has been transferred to a different federal court district, said Assistant U.S. Attorney Ruth Morgan. Prosecution of the case began in Gulfport, but Markham has moved to Memphis.

He faces up to 30 years in prison and a fine of up to $1 million. He also could be ordered to repay the money.

The federal government claims he withdrew the money from various accounts between June 2005 and September 2006.

"I think it's safe to say there were no real customers involved," said Wes Fulmer, executive vice president of The Peoples Bank.

Markham had worked for Citizens National Bank in Meridian before joining The Peoples Bank in late December 2004. He was an assistant vice president and manager of the Diamondhead branch.

Fulmer said Markham resigned in June 2006 for a position with another bank.

Markham declined comment when contacted by telephone Friday afternoon. His attorney could not be reached.

Records in U.S. District Court in Gulfport show Markham signed his paperwork Sept. 29 at a federal courthouse in Memphis.

He has waived the right to trial.

It was unclear Friday if a date has been set for a plea hearing.

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