NewsWFLA (NBC 8) — Local NewsJuly 31, 2026Sarasota County
Lakewood Ranch church members report $10,000 in stolen donation checks
At least six members of a Lakewood Ranch church have had their donation checks intercepted, fraudulently endorsed, and deposited into unauthorized accounts, totaling nearly $10,000 in losses. The church and its members are currently seeking answers and recovery of the stolen funds.
Read the full story at WFLA (NBC 8) — Local NewsWhy It Matters
Local residents who donate via physical checks to this church face the risk of financial loss and identity theft due to the interception and unauthorized deposit of their contributions.
Key Facts
Each fact below is taken from the article. Click one to see the exact passage.
Who's Mentioned
locationLakewood Ranch“The location where the church and affected members are based.”personShannon Behnken“Consumer investigator for WFLA who contacted the bank on behalf of the victim.”organizationHarvest United Methodist Church“The church in Lakewood Ranch that was the intended recipient of the stolen donat”personOswald Reid“Retired CEO and church member whose $1,833 donation check was stolen.”organizationSarasota County Sheriff’s Office“Law enforcement agency investigating the check theft.”organizationWFLA“The news outlet reporting on the incident.”personBill Schrimpf“Finance director for Harvest United Methodist Church who reported the total loss”