The director of a grant-funded non-profit organization in South Carolina has been arrested for allegedly misusing $44,000 intended for a community center project. Darrel President Sr., 56, is accused of withdrawing funds without the knowledge of the board of directors, leading to a state investigation.
Key Takeaways
- Darrel President Sr. arrested for misusing $44,000 from the Greenbrier Resource Community Development Center.
- Funds were intended for a community center in Fairfield County.
- President allegedly withdrew the money between May 2023 and February 2024.
- He has been charged with breach of trust with fraudulent intent.
Background of the Case
The Greenbrier Resource Community Development Center (GRCDC) received $100,000 in state-funded grants from May 2022 to July 2023. These funds were earmarked for the construction of a community center aimed at serving the local community in Fairfield County. However, the investigation revealed that a significant portion of these funds was misappropriated by the organization’s director.
Details of the Allegations
According to warrants issued by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), President withdrew approximately $44,220 from the GRCDC’s bank account over a period of several months. The withdrawals occurred between May 2023 and February 2024, during which time the board of directors was unaware of the financial misconduct.
- Amount Misused: $44,220
- Time Frame of Withdrawals: May 2023 – February 2024
- Total Grants Received: $100,000
Admission and Repayment
The situation came to light when board members began questioning President about the financial discrepancies. Following their inquiries, he admitted to the unauthorized withdrawals and began repaying the funds in June 2024. This admission has raised further concerns about the oversight and governance of the non-profit organization.
Legal Consequences
As a result of the investigation, Darrel President Sr. has been charged with breach of trust with fraudulent intent, a serious offense that carries significant legal repercussions. The charge is particularly severe given that the amount involved exceeds $10,000, which could lead to harsher penalties if convicted.
Community Impact
The alleged misuse of funds has not only affected the GRCDC but also the community it serves. The intended community center project was designed to provide essential services and resources to local residents. With the funds misappropriated, the future of the project is now uncertain, leaving many community members concerned about the loss of potential benefits.
Conclusion
The arrest of Darrel President Sr. serves as a stark reminder of the importance of transparency and accountability in non-profit organizations. As investigations continue, the community and stakeholders will be watching closely to see how this situation unfolds and what measures will be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.
