Following a rash of internal fraud at small credit unions across the country, the latest victims appear to be two cooperatives that serve law enforcement officers.

At the $5.2 million New Haven Police and Municipal FCU, a former teller was arrested Sept. 16, according to a press release issued by the Chief State's Attorney's Office.

Susan Holm, age 40, of Milford, Conn., was accused of stealing more $35,000 from nine member accounts from 2012 to 2013, the press release said.

John Loffredo, CEO of the New Haven, Conn.-based cooperative, told CU Times that the credit union notified its 820 members after a forensic audit pinpointed irregularities. He declined to comment about the specifics of the crime.

The credit union has implemented changes to better deter and detect employee dishonesty, Loffredo said.

“We certainly have taken steps to prevent this type of incident from happening again,” he added.

Prior to her arrest, Holm was charged with one count each of larceny and computer crime in the first degree, felonies that carry a maximum prison sentence of 20 years on each count, the release said.

She posted a $35,000 surety bond and is scheduled for arraignment Sept. 25 in New Haven Superior Court.

Meanwhile, the FBI is investigating a former employee of Portland Maine Police Department FCU for allegedly stealing funds, according to a press release issued by 900-member cooperative based in Portland, Maine.

An internal audit confirmed that an employee had misappropriated credit union funds, the release said.

“Once suspicious activity was discovered, the credit union moved swiftly to engage a forensic accounting firm, legal counsel and other professionals to investigate,” Hosea Carpenter, president/CEO of the Portland Maine Police Department FCU, stated in the press release. “We have referred this matter to law enforcement agencies and we expect this individual to be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”

The credit union fired the employee immediately, contacted the FBI and the U.S. Attorney's Office, and notified members by sending a letter, the release said.

Portland Maine Police Department FCU did not specify how much money was allegedly stolen or the former employee's job title.

“No members have lost money as a result of this former employee's actions, as all accounts are fully-insured,” the release said. “Our first concern and priority is out members and, while we are deeply disappointed in the actions of this former employee, we are confident our members understand that the acts of this individual are not reflective of the other dedicated sataff and officials at our credit union.”

Both credit unions said they sent letters to members to advise them about the investigation.

Portland Maine Police Department FCU's letter to members, dated Sept. 11, stated that the theft was the first embezzlement in the credit union's history.

“Finally, let me assure each of you that the staff and I will continue to work diligently to prevent any similar occurrence in the future,” the letter said. “Our expectation is that this former employee will be held responsible for his actions and the credit union shall continue in its mission to serve you.”

Instant Insights /

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