Authorities Launch Investigation After $100K Vanishes From Church

An investigation is underway regarding the alleged theft of over $100,000 from Heartland Community Church in Lafayette, Indiana, which reportedly began in December 2021. The church filed a police report on Tuesday, claiming that an unknown individual has been embezzling funds from their accounts.

According to the Tippecanoe County Sheriff’s Office, the church’s bank initially identified discrepancies in the church’s financial records. While the exact amount stolen has not been specified, it is confirmed to be in the six-figure range. Investigators suspect that a former employee may be involved in the embezzlement.

Heartland Community Church, originally founded by Dutch Reformed immigrants as First Reformed Church, rebranded and relocated in 2008. The church’s website reflects its commitment to following Jesus and fostering a loving and inclusive community, while acknowledging its rich historical roots dating back to its establishment in 1888.

A 2017 Lifeway Research study found that nearly 10% of Protestant pastors reported experiencing embezzlement in their churches. Larger congregations, with 250 or more members, were slightly more prone to such incidents. Lifeway Executive Director Scott McConnell emphasized the importance of safeguarding church finances, noting that while churches rely on trust, it is crucial to protect against potential financial misconduct.

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