Columbia Nonprofit Director Arrested for Embezzling Over $44,000

Columbia Man Arrested for Allegedly Stealing Over $44,000 from Nonprofit

In a startling turn of events, a former executive director of a nonprofit organization in Columbia has been arrested for allegedly stealing over $44,000. Darrel President Sr., age 56, was taken into custody on October 16, according to the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED). The charge? Breach of trust with fraudulent intent related to funds exceeding $10,000.

A Closer Look at the Allegations

The troubling allegations state that between May 19, 2023, and February 29, 2024, President diverted funds from the Greenbrier Resource Community Development Center to bolster his own finances. The arrest warrant presented to the public detailed how he took money from the nonprofit that was supposed to be used for community development. President was found to be an authorized signer on the organization’s bank account, which granted him access to make withdrawals.

According to SLED’s report, the nonprofit had recently received $100,000 in state-funded grants aimed at creating a community center in Fairfield County. It was during this crucial period that President allegedly made unauthorized withdrawals from the organization’s bank account without the board’s consent or knowledge, leading to a loss of approximately $44,220. Although details about what he spent the stolen money on remain unclear, it certainly raises questions about his actions during that timeframe.

His Admission and Attempts at Repayment

When confronted by board members of the Greenbrier Resource Community Development Center, President reportedly admitted to the withdrawals. Strikingly, he even agreed to pay back the funds he had taken. It was noted in the affidavit that he began making payments toward repaying the stolen amounts starting in June 2024.

Consequences Await

As it stands, President has been booked into the Fairfield County Detention Center. However, details regarding his bond have yet to be made available. The prosecution of his case will be handled by the 6th Circuit Solicitor’s Office. If he is found guilty of this felony charge, the maximum penalty he could face is up to 10 years in prison, according to South Carolina law. This potential sentence reflects the serious nature of financial misconduct, especially involving nonprofit organizations that rely on funding for community betterment initiatives.

A Background Check

Interestingly, this isn’t President’s first foray into the public eye. He previously made attempts to secure a position on the Richland 2 school board in both 2018 and 2022; however, each bid was unsuccessful. This aspect of his background adds a layer of complexity to his current legal issues, as it indicates previous aspirations within the public service sector.

What’s Next?

In today’s fast-paced news environment, facts can sometimes be fuzzy, especially in developing situations like this one. The authorities are diligently working to provide accurate and timely updates, and as new information comes to light, details may evolve. Keep an eye out for updates as this story progresses, as it appears many people in the Columbia community will be watching closely.

As communities often rally around causes like those championed by nonprofits, the implications of this case ripple through the heart of Columbia. Trust in local organizations is essential, and this incident raises questions about the systems in place to protect community resources and ensure accountability.