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In July of last year, the Detroit archdiocese began a limited scope audit of St. Edward on the Lake Parish in Lakeport. Through the audit, the archdiocese discovered what appeared to be a misappropriation of parish funds by the parish bookkeeper.

Based on the audit findings, the employment of this bookkeeper was terminated in July of 2009. Civil authorities also were notified and began their own investigation, which has resulted in an arraignment and charges of embezzlement in excess of $100,000. St. Edward and the archdiocese will continue to work with authorities and with their insurer to see that the parish is made whole financially.

As this case currently is in court, the Detroit archdiocese and parish leadership will be limited in further comment on this particular matter. In a broader context, however, it can be said that the archdiocese takes seriously its responsibility of financial stewardship and any actions that would compromise the trust of those who give to the church. Since 2007, the archdiocese has strengthened its safeguards against fraud by conducting regular periodic audits of all parishes and schools to ensure proper financial controls are in place.