Former Finance Director Accused of Embezzling COVID Relief Funds

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Ashley Clark Ingram, the former finance director for Habitat for Humanity of Central South Carolina, has pled guilty to a single count of embezzlement related to COVID-19 relief funds, according to federal filings. Ingram is alleged to have misappropriated more than $388,000 of the relief funds intended for Central South Carolina Habitat for Humanity.

Internal Investigation Reveals Misappropriation of Funds

William Jeter, treasurer and president-elect of Central South Carolina Habitat for Humanity Board of Directors, revealed that an internal investigation had uncovered Ingram’s malpractices. The inquiry, facilitated by a third party, identified fund deficiencies stemming from ill-intent.

Post her tenure with Habitat for Humanity, Ingram was employed with the ACLU of South Carolina, serving as their Finance and Operations Director, as indicated by an archive of the ACLU’s website. The ACLU, however, has confirmed that Ingram is no longer part of their organization. Once an accounting manager at Cactus Family Farms in Orangeburg, Ingram’s career has been evidently prolific in the finance sector.

Recovery of Misappropriated Assets

Ingram, as per her plea agreement, has consented to surrender all her assets, property, and possessions purchased with the misappropriated COVID-19 relief funds. The statement from Jeter stated, “The majority of the misappropriated funds have been recovered, and Central South Carolina Habitat anticipates it will fully recover all funds in the near future.”

Ingram to Face a Plea Hearing

Ingram is slated to appear before Judge Mary Geiger Lewis at the federal courthouse in Columbia for a bond hearing and plea negotiation. Though specifics regarding the ramifications and sentencing of Ingram’s plea are yet to be revealed, the impact it could have on future disbursements and handling of relief funds is considerable.

Implications for the Habitat for Humanity

The Habitat for Humanity, aiming to build decent, affordable housing in partnership with those in need, relies heavily on donations, grants, and government funding. The alleged embezzlement could considerably tarnish the trust and reputation of the organization, potentially impacting future funding prospects.

Conclusion

The charges against Ingram underline the crucial importance of implementing stringent financial controls in charitable organizations. Appropriate mechanisms must be in place to not only detect but also prevent fraudulent activities, thereby safeguarding the funds intended for those who genuinely need them.