A humane society worker in Florida skimmed $22,000 over a period of eight months in 2005, using money intended for dogs and cats for personal use, the Broward Sheriffs Office said.
Colleen Mendolia, 27, was arrested for stealing at least 85 checks from the Humane Society of Broward County, and depositing them in her own bank account. Mendolia turned herself in on Jan. 24 after authorities discovered the crime, and was released on bail. If convicted, she could serve up to 15 years in prison.
Investigators say that the $22,000 has been recovered, but believe that Mendolia may have stolen additional donations.
Medolias job was to sort checks and credit card transactions for the non-profit organization, which relies entirely on donations.
We trust our policies, procedures, and staff, said Executive Director Christopher Agostino. Who thought [she] could do something like that? I don't mean to sound naive, but its a first.
The Humane Society learned about Mendolias activity in October 2005, when a bank customer recognized her as the person who had made a fraudulent transaction against his account, according to The Miami Herald.
Posted: Jan. 31, 2006, 3 p.m. EST