A former executive director of a New Hampshire nonprofit has been indicted for allegedly embezzling nearly $200,000 from the organization. Christine Allen, 50, faces multiple counts of wire fraud and is set to appear in federal court soon.
Key Takeaways
- Christine Allen, former executive director of Monadnock Peer Support, indicted for embezzling funds.
- Allegations include using stolen money for personal expenses, including home renovations and various purchases.
- Allen faces up to 20 years in prison if convicted.
Background of the Case
Christine Allen, who also went by the last names Nowill and Yardley, served as the executive director of Monadnock Peer Support (MPS) from late 2020 until her departure in 2023. During her tenure, she had full access to the nonprofit’s financial resources, including accounting records, bank accounts, checkbooks, and debit cards.
Between January 2021 and May 2023, Allen allegedly embezzled nearly $200,000 from MPS. The U.S. Attorney’s Office reported that she used the stolen funds for various personal expenses, which included:
- Amazon purchases
- Home renovations
- Kitchen products
- Gaming equipment
- Hockey equipment
- A meat cleaver
- A food dehydrator
Legal Proceedings
U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announced the indictment, which includes four counts of wire fraud. Allen has stated her intention to plead not guilty to the charges. She is scheduled to appear in federal court at a later date.
If convicted, Allen could face significant penalties, including:
- Up to 20 years in prison
- Fines up to $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss, whichever is greater
Impact on the Nonprofit Sector
Despite the serious allegations against Allen, officials from Turning Point of Windham County, where she previously worked, have stated that they do not believe the organization has been compromised. Jonathan Keane, president of the Turning Point Board, emphasized their commitment to ensuring that programming and services remain unaffected.
Brattleboro Police Chief Norma Hardy also commented on the situation, stating that the indictment would not impact the police department’s long-standing partnership with Turning Point, particularly in their collaborative efforts on Project CARE (Community Approach to Recovery and Engagement).
Community Involvement
In September, Allen had provided updates to the Brattleboro Select Board regarding Turning Point’s initiatives, including plans to open a sober living facility. She was actively involved in discussions about downtown safety, contributing to new initiatives aimed at improving the community.
Conclusion
The indictment of Christine Allen serves as a stark reminder of the importance of financial oversight within nonprofit organizations. As the legal proceedings unfold, the community and stakeholders will be watching closely to see how this case impacts both the individuals involved and the broader nonprofit sector in New Hampshire.
