Former Nonprofit COO Charged with Embezzling San Diego County Grant Funds

Amy Knox accused of using over $130,000 in public money for personal expenses like plastic surgery and vacations

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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The former chief operating officer of a San Diego nonprofit that contracted with the county to distribute the anti-overdose medication Narcan has been charged with embezzling over $130,000 in public funds to pay for personal expenses such as plastic surgery, trips, and utility bills. Amy Knox, 45, is accused of misappropriating the money from the over $4 million in grants the Harm Reduction Coalition of San Diego received from the county to prevent fentanyl deaths.

Why it matters

This case highlights ongoing concerns about the lack of proper oversight and accountability measures for how public funds are used by nonprofit organizations contracted by local governments. It also raises questions about the vetting process for hiring individuals with criminal histories into sensitive financial roles.

The details

According to prosecutors, Knox "controlled the nonprofit's finances and was designated as the contract administrator for the county contracts." She is accused of using the embezzled funds to pay for personal expenses like plastic surgery procedures, trips to Hawaii and Disneyland, and her SDG&E and credit card bills. Knox was previously convicted of taking over $500,000 from a prior employer, but was still able to attain her position at the Harm Reduction Coalition without a background check.

  • Knox was arrested last week and pleaded not guilty to the charges on Wednesday.
  • She remains in custody on $200,000 bail, pending a bail review hearing set for next week.
  • The county canceled its contracts for Narcan distribution and drug testing with the nonprofit in June 2025, after the CEO reported suspicions about Knox to the District Attorney's Office.

The players

Amy Knox

The 45-year-old former chief operating officer of the Harm Reduction Coalition of San Diego, who is accused of embezzling over $130,000 in public funds.

Harm Reduction Coalition of San Diego

A nonprofit organization that contracted with San Diego County to distribute the anti-overdose medication Narcan and received over $4 million in grants for these efforts.

Tara Stamos-Buesig

The CEO of the Harm Reduction Coalition of San Diego, who reported suspicions about Knox to the District Attorney's Office.

Summer Stephan

The San Diego County District Attorney, who announced the charges against Knox and raised concerns about the lack of proper oversight and accountability measures.

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What they’re saying

“Whistleblowing is an important part of public safety. It is often the first line of defense against corruption and misuse of public funds.”

— Summer Stephan, San Diego County District Attorney (nbcsandiego.com)

“It is deeply concerning that the checks and balances that are supposed to safeguard the county's large budget and trust funds failed in this case.”

— Summer Stephan, San Diego County District Attorney (nbcsandiego.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Amy Knox to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the critical need for robust oversight and accountability measures when it comes to how nonprofit organizations use public funds, as well as the importance of thorough background checks for individuals in sensitive financial roles, even if they have prior criminal convictions.