OKLAHOMA CITY – Nine people have been charged following an investigation by Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond’s office into alleged financial crimes involving OKCity Crisis Nursery.
Prosecutors allege the nonprofit’s founder and executive director, Jennifer Lynn Roberts, embezzled more than $50,000 in charitable donations intended to help children in crisis and transferred more than $200,000 to others through Venmo and Cash App.
Key Takeaways
- Nine people are facing criminal charges following the Attorney General’s investigation into OKCity Crisis Nursery.
- Prosecutors allege the nonprofit’s founder used charitable donations for personal expenses and transferred hundreds of thousands of dollars to others.
- The case includes a wide range of charges, from embezzlement and racketeering to receiving unlawful proceeds and other alleged crimes.
- Authorities say eight of the nine defendants are in custody.
Allegations outlined by investigators
According to the Attorney General’s office, Roberts founded the nonprofit in 2018 and was the sole authorized signer on the organization’s financial accounts. Investigators allege charitable donations were used for personal expenses, including cosmetic procedures, salon visits, a gym membership, clothing and vacations.
Drummond said in the release that Oklahomans donate to charities expecting to help children, “not funding someone’s lifestyle.”…