Embezzlement is when someone misuses money or assets that were entrusted to them. The is a crime in Michigan, and the punishment depends on how much was embezzled. Any business or organization, including the Girl Scouts, can become a victim of embezzlement.
Women charged with embezzling from Girl Scout troop
Two Michigan women are accused of embezzling more than $20,000 from a Girl Scout troop in Ann Arbor. The women are 61-year-old Maryann Grace Churchwell and 60-year-old Lori Elleen Mross.
The women served as Girl Scout troop leaders between June 2019 and February 2023. Police didn’t provide information about how the money was embezzled or used. But law officers did confirm that the women embezzled between $20,000 to $30,000 from the troop.
A Girl Scouts Heart of Michigan spokesperson stated that the organization has safety precautions to protect its funds. The precautions allowed the organization to spot the illegal activity and press charges.
The case is ongoing. Both women were given a $5,000 bond and ordered to appear in court in December 2023.
White-collar crimes
Embezzlement is one of several white-collar crimes. White-collar crimes are non-violent acts that are financially motivated. People who commit these crimes are individuals, businesses or government officials in a position of trust and authority within their chosen target.
Embezzlement in Michigan
Embezzling between $200 and $1000 in Michigan is a misdemeanor that can earn you up to one year in jail. Embezzling at least $1000 but less than $20000 is a felony that can mean up to five years in prison. Embezzling $20000 or more but less than $50000 is a felony with the punishment being up to ten years in prison.
Embezzlement is a crime in the United States. If you’re convicted of this crime, you’ll possibly face jail time and a penalty. The conviction will also cause you to have a criminal record.