Former PTO Treasurer Stole $44K from School Funds

A woman who formerly served as treasurer of the Parent-Teacher Organization at a Southern Florida charter school is facing charges for allegedly stealing tens of thousands of dollars from the organization’s bank account.

According to reports, the woman, who had spent nearly four years as the Parent-Teacher Organization treasurer at Imagine Charter School in Coral Springs, was relieved of her duties last year after she was suspected of taking money from the organization’s funds. It was believed that she was a likely suspect since she had direct access to the bank account where the money was kept. The situation began in the summer of 2024, when a board member reportedly noticed that a substantial amount of money appeared to be missing from the Wells Fargo account. It was initially believed that $12,000 was unaccounted for, but later, the authorities alleged that they found approximately $44,000 had been taken.

As a result of the accusations, the 55-year-old was fired from her position as treasurer. The authorities continued their investigation and reportedly discovered that 183 transactions were made using a debit card. The records allegedly showed that a large portion of the money was spent at various restaurants, retail stores, and rideshare services. The police also reported that records of multiple ATM withdrawals and Zelle money transfers were found.

When the authorities talked to the woman about the situation, she allegedly said she had been having financial problems and was close to being evicted from her home, and reportedly said the money from Zelle went into a petty cash fund for the PTO.

The woman was taken into custody and booked into the Broward County Jail. She is facing preliminary charges of grand theft, scheme to defraud, and criminal use of personal identification. According to records, she was released after posting a $20,000 bond.

If you or someone you love is suspected of a theft offense, contact Orange County criminal defense lawyer Staycie R. Sena at (949) 477-8088 for a consultation now.