Criminal charges have finally been laid against a former employee of the United Way of Chatham-Kent for allegedly misappropriating funds.
On Wednesday afternoon, Chatham-Kent police said Veronica Whittal, 48, of Tilbury, was charged with one count of fraud over $5,000.
Police noted they started a fraud investigation on September 29, 2023 following a report of misappropriation of funds from the United Way of Chatham-Kent.
Police said Whittal was arrested on February 2, 2024 after a "thorough investigation" that included analysis of records dating from October 8, 2021 to October 20, 2022.
Whittal was released with conditions and a future court date of February 26, 2024.
In October 2023, CK News Today learned the local United Way was suing Whittal for nearly $300,000. Court documents filed in Ontario Superior Court showed the United Way is trying to recover $292,614.27.
Whittal held various positions at the agency, including Coordinator of Finance and Administration.
The organization previously said the matter was thoroughly investigated and the employee named in the civil action is no longer with the organization.
The United Way also said it has strengthened security protocols to prevent the opportunity for any future incidents.