A former nonprofit director in South Carolina has been arrested for allegedly misusing over $44,000 intended for community development. Darrel President, Sr., 56, faces charges of breach of trust with fraudulent intent after withdrawing funds from the Greenbrier Resource Community Development Center’s bank account.
Key Takeaways
- Darrel President, Sr. charged with breach of trust.
- Allegedly misused $44,220 from nonprofit funds.
- Funds were intended for a community center construction project.
- President admitted to the withdrawals and began repayment.
Background of the Case
The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division has reported that Darrel President, Sr. was the Executive Director of the Greenbrier Resource Community Development Center. His role granted him significant financial authority, including being the authorized signer on the nonprofit’s bank account.
Between May 19, 2023, and February 29, 2024, President allegedly withdrew approximately $44,220 from the organization’s funds. This money was part of a larger $100,000 grant received from the state to support the construction of a community center aimed at benefiting the local community.
Details of the Allegations
The arrest warrant outlines several key points regarding the alleged misuse of funds:
- Time Frame: The withdrawals occurred over a ten-month period.
- Amount Misused: A total of $44,220 was withdrawn from the nonprofit’s account.
- Purpose of Funds: The funds were intended for community development projects.
- Admission of Guilt: When confronted by board members, President admitted to the withdrawals and expressed willingness to repay the amount.
Financial Mismanagement
Upon further investigation, it was revealed that President used the withdrawn funds for personal enrichment rather than for the intended community projects. This misuse of funds raises serious concerns about financial oversight within nonprofit organizations and the responsibilities of those in leadership positions.
Legal Proceedings
Following his arrest, President was booked into the Fairfield County Detention Center. The legal proceedings will determine the extent of his accountability and the potential consequences he may face for his actions. The case highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in nonprofit management, especially when handling public funds.
Community Impact
The alleged actions of Darrel President, Sr. not only affect the financial stability of the Greenbrier Resource Community Development Center but also jeopardize the community projects that were reliant on the state-funded grants. The community’s trust in nonprofit organizations may also be impacted as a result of this incident, emphasizing the need for stringent financial controls and oversight.
As the case unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the critical role that ethical leadership plays in nonprofit organizations and the potential consequences of financial misconduct.
