URGENT UPDATE: A Buffalo woman has pleaded guilty to stealing a staggering $272,205 from a religious organization, but she may avoid prison time. LaChria Bowden, aged 55, entered her plea on Thursday in connection with serious charges, including second-degree grand larceny and repeated failure to file personal income and earnings taxes.
This shocking case has raised eyebrows as State Supreme Court Judge Paul Wojtaszek indicated he may impose a sentence of just five years of probation, a decision influenced by the organization’s requests. These charges could lead to a maximum prison sentence of 15 years.
Bowden’s theft occurred over a span of time from November 13, 2017, to September 24, 2024, while she worked as an assistant to the treasurer of the Church of God in Christ’s New York Western Second Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction, which oversees 38 member congregations.
The scheme involved Bowden writing preauthorized checks to herself instead of the organization. The theft was uncovered when a bounced check triggered an investigation that revealed Bowden used the funds for personal expenses. Following the discovery, she was terminated from her position.
Bowden has signed a Confession of Judgment agreeing to repay the entire amount stolen, alongside an additional $8,950 to the New York Department of Taxation and Finance. Currently, she has been released on her own recognizance and is scheduled for sentencing on January 22, 2024.
Thomas Casey, attorney for the church, expressed the organization’s shock and regret regarding the breach of trust, stating, “When he discovered the theft and the significant amount involved, it was shocking to everybody. It was a terrible breach of trust in someone who had been associated with the church for a long time.”
The church conducted an audit after suspicions arose, and the findings were promptly shared with the district attorney’s office, leading to Bowden’s guilty plea.
As this case develops, many are left wondering about the implications of the court’s leniency in sentencing. The community is watching closely, hoping for justice and accountability in a case that has left many feeling betrayed.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
