A state audit released today says a former treasurer for a Poweshiek County volunteer fire department was responsible for more than $11,000 in missing money. State Auditor David Vaudt says Brenda Ruchti was fired from the job when the misappropriated funds were discovered in September of last year.
The state audit was requested when the bank noticed that Ruchti had made internet transfers from the Searsboro Fire Department’s bank account to her own personal account. Ruchti served as treasurer of the Searsboro Volunteer Fire Department for three-and-a-half years. deposits
"We found a little over $11,000 worth of improper disbursements, unsupported disbursements and uncollected deposits," Vaudt said. Ruchti is accused of transferring more than $4,300 from a fire department bank account directly to her personal bank account.
Vaudt says Ruchti was also making Internet transfers to pay personal bills and rent. The state audit states there were no adequate records to determine if proceeds from donations and fundraisers were properly deposited into the fire department’s bank account.
The report has been turned over to the Poweshiek County Attorney’s office for possible charges.