A prominent Fargo activist and business owner, Faith Shields-Dixon, along with her husband, Charles Dixon, has been charged with multiple felony theft offenses related to their nonprofit organization, Faith4Hope Scholarship Fund Inc. The charges, filed in Burleigh County, allege misappropriation of public funds intended for community services.
Key Takeaways
- Faith Shields-Dixon and Charles Dixon face multiple felony theft charges.
- Allegations include using nonprofit funds for personal gain and family businesses.
- The couple remains in custody, awaiting court proceedings.
Background of Faith4Hope
Founded in 2016, Faith4Hope aims to assist low-income families in achieving long-term independence. The organization received a three-year grant of $350,000 from the state in January 2022 to provide after-school programming for students. However, investigations revealed that funds were allegedly funneled to businesses owned by Shields-Dixon’s family.
Details of the Charges
The couple faces two Class B felony theft charges, while Shields-Dixon faces two additional Class B felony charges and one Class C felony charge. The charges stem from:
- Misappropriation of Grant Funds: Funds intended for community services were allegedly used to pay family-owned businesses.
- Deceptive Practices: The couple is accused of using deception to secure grant money for services that were not adequately provided.
Family Involvement in Nonprofit
Shields-Dixon has openly discussed her family’s involvement in the nonprofit. Family members provided various services, including:
- Culinary classes by her husband, Charles Dixon.
- Music instruction by her brother, Paul Shields Jr.
- Dance classes by her sister-in-law, Tekeema Shields.
Investigation Findings
The North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation began looking into Faith4Hope in September 2023. Key findings include:
- Conflicts of Interest: The nonprofit allegedly paid family businesses for services, raising ethical concerns.
- Lack of Documentation: The state found insufficient records to verify the services provided and the use of grant funds.
- Closed Operations: Investigators noted that the nonprofit was often closed during scheduled hours, with no children present.
Financial Irregularities
A search warrant executed in April 2024 revealed troubling financial transactions:
- Transfers between Shields-Dixon’s personal accounts and the nonprofit’s account.
- Significant cash withdrawals and deposits that raised red flags regarding the use of grant funds.
Consequences and Next Steps
Each Class B felony charge carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $20,000 fine, while the Class C felony could result in up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine. The state is also seeking to recover $70,000 in grant funds that were deemed unallowable expenses.
Community Impact
Shields-Dixon is a well-known figure in Fargo, advocating for various community causes, particularly for marginalized groups. The charges have raised concerns about the integrity of nonprofit organizations and the management of public funds in the community. As the case unfolds, it will likely have significant implications for local activism and nonprofit governance.
