Local Financial Secretary Charged with Stealing Over $400,000 from Church
Ware Shoals, S.C. – A woman from Ware Shoals, South Carolina, is facing serious charges after police revealed that she stole hundreds of thousands of dollars from a local church. The incident had been unfolding since 2019 and came to light when a new financial secretary was hired.
Background of the Incident
The Ware Shoals Police Department reported that Shelley Strickland worked as a financial secretary for Ware Shoals First Baptist Church. It was in this role that she allegedly began taking money from various church accounts to cover her credit card bills and other personal expenses. Authorities stated that her activities went unnoticed for several years.
Discovery of the Crime
A pastor at the church became aware of the issue when a new financial secretary was hired. The new hire reviewed the church’s finances and noticed discrepancies. This prompted an investigation, which revealed that Strickland had taken a total of $404,414 from multiple accounts, including the church’s emergency fund.
Expenditures
Throughout the investigation, it was discovered that the misappropriated funds were used for a variety of personal expenses. These included restaurant meals, trips to the Smokey Mountains, resort rentals, and various family expenses. Strickland also benefited from living in a parsonage owned by the church.
Wider Implications
In addition to her role at Ware Shoals First Baptist Church, Strickland has worked as a financial secretary for several other churches. The police department has contacted those churches to determine if similar issues have occurred. As a result, additional charges are pending in Greenwood County.
Ongoing Investigation
Law enforcement continues to review records and gather more information about the scope of Strickland’s activities. The community remains shocked by the discovery, and church members are awaiting more updates as the investigation proceeds.
Community Impact
The theft has had a significant impact on the church and its members. Funds that could have supported church activities, community outreach, and emergency needs were instead diverted for personal use. The congregation is now focused on rebuilding trust and strengthening their financial oversight procedures to prevent such incidents from happening in the future.
This ongoing case serves as a reminder of the importance of transparency and vigilance in managing organizational funds.
