WYOMING, Mich. — A former president of the Wyoming High School (WHS) Band Booster Club has been charged with embezzling money from the program, according to Wyoming Public Schools.
The district asserts none of its employees were involved in the alleged crime, adding their business office did not have the means to detect fraudulent activity in the organization’s accounts.
The Wyoming Department of Public Safety (WDPS) says an investigation into outstanding invoices led to the arrest of 40-year-old Crystal Mulero from Wyoming.
We're told she was arraigned Thursday for embezzling between $20,000 and $50,000.
Specifically, court documents allege Mulero used roughly $35,800 of the program's money for personal use.
WPS says it has decided to halt fundraising efforts through conventional means, opting instead to raise money under their business office’s management with regular audits.
That said, the district stresses it is not the end of their boosters programs; it is merely a change to how fundraisers are ran and organized.
The school district extends its gratitude to the Wyoming Police Department for investigating the situation, saying school officials will keep working with police as financial recovery efforts take place.
WPS assures parents that no students will miss out on summer camp as a result of the embezzlement allegations, stating camp will be free for students to attend.
Superintendent Craig Hoekstra sent FOX 17 the following statement Thursday:
WPS Superintendent Craig Hoekstra Statement by WXMI on Scribd
Those with knowledge related to the investigation are encouraged to connect with public safety officials by calling 616-530-7300. Tips may be submitted anonymously to Silent Observer at 616-774-2345.
