COLUSA, CA (MPG) The former executive manager of the Colusa County Farm Bureau pleaded not guilty last week to embezzling from a local organization that exists to protect, promote, and enhance the agricultural industry through community involvement, advocacy, and education.
Monica Sankey, 38, of Arbuckle, appeared in Colusa County Superior Court to enter her plea on Feb. 28. Public Defender Albert Smith represents her.
The Colusa Police Department arrested Sankey on Jan. 16, following a five-month investigation that began last summer, which led to Sankey’s termination of employment when the alleged embezzlement was first discovered.
Colusa Police Lt. Sara Martin said Colusa County Farm Bureau contacted the police regarding their suspicions that a significant amount of funds had been embezzled.
Special Prosecutor Matthew Beauchamp, of the Colusa County District Attorney’s Office, is prosecuting the case.
Beauchamp said it is estimated Sankey “criminally appropriated” somewhere between $86,000 and $158,000 from the organization.
Sankey was appointed to the executive management position by the Colusa County Farm Bureau in 2021, after the former longtime manager retired. She helped organize the nonprofit’s fundraisers, as well as organized other fundraisers for local causes.
Sankey is scheduled to appear in court on March 13 for the setting of a preliminary hearing. She remains out of custody on $10,000 bail.