Volume 44, Issue 6. Today is
What went wrong
In recent weeks, the East Valley Tribune has brought to light instances of employees mishandling college funds at MCC, specifically within the athletic department.
In 2003, Elena Manuel, secretary of the athletic department, was trusted to count and balance cash dispersed to former coach David Rice. After a trip, the total amount of cash left over was supposed to be balanced out with the receipts of items purchased while away.
Procedures for handling the money changed unofficially, and through a series of events that differ slightly, depending on who is speaking, $4,900 went missing.
It was investigated by Campus Police, and an audit was deemed necessary.
What was found by the audit was even more widespread.
The audit found that Athletic Director Allen Benedict monitored department money very loosely.
pproximately $7,800 in team travel cash was missing, as well as $1,900 in football game concession sales. Also, for two months the secretary did not turn in another $14,000 that should have been deposited immediately, allegedly taking the money for herself.
Although it was recommended by the investigating officer, Mesa Police Department was never contacted and charges were never filed.
President Larry Christiansen allowed the secretary to resign without further questioning.
The stolen funds have yet to be returned.