Ex-employee stole thousands from nonprofit to fund her lifestyle, Georgia cops say
A former employee is accused of stealing thousands of dollars from a nonprofit and spending the money on herself, Georgia police say.
The 53-year-old woman was arrested on a charge of theft by taking after authorities said she swindled more than $12,000 from Gainesville nonprofit Randy and Friends Enterprises, the city’s police department said in a March 11 news release.
The woman, formerly executive director of the organization, had been stealing for years, police said. Randy and Friends’ ministry supports adults with disabilities “as they discover God’s plan for an abundant life,” according to its website.
On March 8, officers executed a search warrant at the woman’s home, where she was arrested, police said.
“Since this is still an open investigation, Randy and Friends and its board members will not have any further comments at this time other than we appreciate the communities [sic] support and ask for your continued prayers and support as we move forward serving our adults with disabilities ...” Chairman Alan J. Wallhausen told McClatchy News in a statement.
Officials said the woman served as executive director until November 2023.
Police began investigating last year and found that the former executive took money from transaction cards and payroll to shop for personal items online, according to police.
Authorities said the investigation is ongoing and the woman could face additional charges.
Gainesville is about a 60-mile drive northeast from downtown Atlanta.
This story was originally published March 12, 2024 at 10:23 AM with the headline "Ex-employee stole thousands from nonprofit to fund her lifestyle, Georgia cops say."