Rhonda Reese, who had served as Executive Director of Midwest Horse Fair since 2007, has been charged with 61 counts of felony theft and writing false cheques. She is accused of redirecting more than $200,000 of the organization’s funds to her personal use. The Midwest Horse Fair is an annual event that draws horse enthusiasts from across the United States.

According to a written statement provided by Megan Hanuszczak, the fair’s current executive director, Midwest Horse Fair, operated by the Wisconsin Horse Council, initially discovered discrepancies in its financial records in the spring of 2017. When further review revealed a misappropriation of funds estimated to be $238,000, the financial discrepancies were reported to law enforcement authorities and Reese was immediately fired.

After investigation, it was revealed that over a period of more than five years, Reese allegedly by various means including the organization’s debit card, used fair funds to purchase personal items and pay for her college tuition. A warrant was issued and Reese was arrested in December 2017. She was released on a signature bond, and her next court appearance is scheduled for April 6, 2018.

With files from Seattletimes.com, TheHorse.com

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