652 embezzlement charges for ex-VFW official

[unhappycamper]

652 embezzlement charges for ex-VFW official
The Associated Press
Posted : Wednesday Sep 17, 2008 7:46:14 EDT

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — The former chief financial officer of the state branch of the Veterans of Foreign Wars is accused of using a debit card to steal more than $120,000 from the organization.

Joe Salas has been indicted by a grand jury on 652 counts of embezzlement and fraud.

Authorities allege that Salas, who had been the organization’s financial officer since 1997, had a debit card issued in his name from the VFW’s account and used it for personal expenses. Tires, gasoline, airline tickets, jewelry and other items were purchased.

Salas’ daughter, Claudine Sanchez, was indicted on 15 theft-related counts. Authorities allege she received VFW checks from her father for personal expenses.

After learning of the allegations, a national VFW board banned Salas from being a member anywhere in the country for the rest of his life.


Rest of article at: http://www.airforcetimes.com/news/2008/09/ap_vfw_091708/%2e