NewsWFLA News Channel 8July 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, endorsed, and deposited into unauthorized accounts, resulting in a total loss of nearly $10,000. The church is currently seeking to recover the stolen funds.
Read the full story at WFLA News Channel 8Why It Matters
Church members and donors in the Lakewood Ranch area face the risk of financial loss through check interception and unauthorized deposit, requiring increased vigilance regarding donation security.
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 the 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“The law enforcement agency investigating the check theft.”personBill Schrimpf“Finance director for Harvest United Methodist Church who reported the total loss”organizationWFLA News Channel 8“The news outlet reporting on the incident.”