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| Stranger Than Fiction: Maryland NEA Affiliate Hides Embezzlement |
| posted by: Ruthie | March 12, 2013, 07:49 PM |
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According to records obtained by the Salisbury Daily times, the Maryland National Education Association (MNEA) affiliate hid an embezzlement of nearly a half-million dollars from its members. Fearing a devastating membership loss, the MNEA conspired not to report special education teacher Denise Owens' use of union dues for gambling. The story reports that teacher and union staffer Owens started writing herself checks in 2006, totaling almost 200 unauthorized checks, ranging from $150 to $6,000. In 2009 the union discovered the crime; however, instead of reporting the crime to members and the authorities, they secretly arranged for Owens to repay the debt. Only union officials, including the former president of the Worcester County Teacher's Association, knew about the agreement fro Owens to repay her debts. "I think the cover up of that theft, and the lies to the teachers, is far worse morally than Denise Owens having a severe gambling problem," said Steve Rakow, lead prosecutor for the Worcester County State's Attorney's Office, at the sentencing of Ms. Owens. While the Maryland union filed an insurance claim stating it suffered a $236,545 loss, they do not explain how authorities were brought in on the crime, stating in the claim document, "Not reported because of potential impact on membership and loss of members." A police investigation only began after the Salisbury Daily Times reported the alleged embezzlement. Court documents say by March 1, investigators learned of the secret meeting and the subsequent audit. Authorities have said the lack of cooperation from union made it very difficult. "A select few were very uncooperative during the investigation," said Lead investigator detective Kyle Clark of the Maryland State Police. "They just weren't willing to talk a lot about what went on." Finally, through subpoenas and court orders, police were able to locate the union's insurance company's records. Among the documents was Owens' written confession from June 2009. Finally, in August, investigators were ready to indict Owens on theft scheme charges. As a result, the school system placed her on indefinite administrative leave. She retired from teacher February 1, 2013. While Ms. Owens actions are disturbing, the union's behavior is unethical and shocking. Regardless of where an educator's , it's imperative that they understand where their membership dues are going. What do you think about the NEA's actions? Comment below
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