A former employee of the United Way of Chatham-Kent has pleaded guilty to defrauding the agency of more than $300,000.
Veronica Whittal, 48, of Tilbury, made a court appearance in Chatham on Friday to enter her plea.
The court heard Whittal defrauded the CK United Way of $302,341 by e-transferring funds between October 8, 2021 and October 20, 2022.
The court was told that the defendant created e-mail addresses similar to various vendors associated with United Way Chatham-Kent, e-transferred several false payments, and deposited them into her own bank account.
She was arrested and charged with one count of fraud over $5,000 in February 2024.
Whittal's lawyer Ken Marley said she has completed a gambling addiction treatment program and is participating in mental health and addictions counselling.
Marley said she has no previous criminal record.
He is preparing a pre-sentence report for the judge's consideration.
A sentencing hearing will take place on January 15, 2025.
Chatham-Kent Police previously noted they started a fraud investigation on September 29, 2023, following a report of misappropriation of funds from the United Way of Chatham-Kent.
Whittal held various positions at the agency, including Coordinator of Finance and Administration.
The United Way has already said it has strengthened security protocols to prevent the opportunity for any future incidents.