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Keaukaha Church Theft 10-30-03

HAWAII COUNTY POLICE DEPARTMENT
HILO CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION SECTION
DETECTIVE BENTON BOLOS
PHONE: 961-2385
OCTOBER 30, 2003
H-50872

MEDIA RELEASE

Hilo police detectives have been investigating a reported theft of money from the Malia Puka O Kalani, Catholic Church in Keaukaha for nearly three months.

The theft was reported by administrators of the Catholic Church diocese in July 2003 and it was estimated that the church suffered a loss of more than $50,000.00.

The female suspect is a former office worker who was entrusted with dispersing checks for bill payments, staff salaries, and other financial responsibilities.

Investigation reveals that the female suspect utilized funds belonging to the Catholic Church for personal use over several years.

The thefts started in January 1999, until finally discovered by administrators sometime in March 2003.

The case has been reviewed by the Hawaii County Prosecutor’s Office and an indictment is expected in the near future.

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