Bad Samaritans: Why nonprofits are prime targets for fraud

The headlines can be shocking––“Nonprofit Embezzled by Trusted Employee”––and the dollar amounts staggering. For instance, $375,000 was allegedly embezzled recently from the nonprofit Sonoma County Farm Bureau by a staff member, according to an ongoing investigation by
Marin Humane to Take Reins at Petaluma Animal Shelter
Petaluma has appointed Marin Humane as the interim operator of its city animal shelter, following the sudden termination of North Bay Animal Services. The Petaluma Argus-Courier reports the transition begins April 1st after the City Council unanimously
Santa Rosa Considers “ICE-Free Zone” Policy for City Property
The Santa Rosa City Council meets tomorrow at 4:00 p.m. to consider a new ordinance barring federal immigration authorities from using city spaces for enforcement. The Press Democrat reports building on existing state laws, the proposal would
SMART Moves Toward Healdsburg with Bridge and Rail Upgrades
Construction is ramping up on the $269 million SMART rail extension to Healdsburg, with crews now conducting deep soil boring to design seven new bridges. According to the Press Democrat, Chief Engineer Bill Gamlen says a highlight
Subpoenaed Journals Reveal LeFever’s Early Doubts in Mattson Fraud Case
Newly disclosed bankruptcy documents reveal that Tim LeFever had serious misgivings about business partner Ken Mattson’s “scam-like” transactions as early as 2013. The Press Democrat reports personal journal entries show LeFever questioned Mattson’s habit of bypassing formal
Hobby Lobby Targets Rohnert Park for Major North Bay Expansion
Craft and home decor giant Hobby Lobby is eyeing a significant expansion in the North Bay with plans for a new location in Rohnert Park. The retailer has officially applied for permits to breathe new life into
New Carriers and Routes Boost Sonoma County Airport
The Charles M. Schulz-Sonoma County Airport (STS) is entering a new era of growth as major airlines expand their presence in the North Bay. Following the recent launch of new service by Alaska Airlines last week, airport
Public Debut: Plans Unveiled for New Senior Housing on Highway 12
Residents are getting their first look today at a proposed 275-unit senior housing community on a 69-acre site near Elnoka Lane. Burbank Housing is hosting a neighborhood meeting from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. to discuss the
Late-Night Santa Rosa Arrests: Two Men Jailed for Concealed Firearms
Two Ukiah men are in custody after Santa Rosa police discovered loaded, concealed handguns during a parking lot encounter Friday night. The incident unfolded around 7:30 p.m. in the 3000 block of Santa Rosa Avenue. According to officers,
Petaluma Police Warn of Targeted Tire Thefts and Car Burglaries
Petaluma police are on high alert following a string of car-related crimes, including a series of specialized thefts targeting Toyota Camrys. According to the Petaluma Argus-Courier, over a two-day period, thieves struck three separate Camrys on the