CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A payroll director at the Salvation Army’s district headquarters pleaded guilty Wednesday in federal court to one count of wire fraud.
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Susan Watson was the payroll director for three years and prosecutors said she created prepaid debit cards, using the names of employees.
Prosecutors said she pocketed $200,000.
Watson loaded funds onto the cards and made cash withdrawals at ATMs.
Volunteers, who ring bells at red kettles to collect donations, were not happy with the crime.
“Yeah, it leaves a bad taste in your mouth,” volunteer Robert Daughtridge said.
Watson may have to pay some of the money back as part of her plea agreement and could face up to 20 years in prison.
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