Former Humane Society Worker Charged with $10,000 Embezzlement

Richelle Brown accused of misusing funds over several months in Cheboygan County

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

A 34-year-old former employee of the Cheboygan County Humane Society, Richelle Brown, has been charged with embezzling approximately $10,000 in funds from the organization over a period of several months. Brown was arraigned on one count of embezzlement and released on a $5,000 personal bond, with a court appearance scheduled for March 19.

Why it matters

Embezzlement of funds from non-profit organizations like the Cheboygan County Humane Society can undermine public trust and the ability of these groups to fulfill their mission of helping animals and the community. This case highlights the importance of strong financial controls and oversight to prevent such misuse of funds.

The details

According to Michigan State Police, Richelle Brown, a former employee of the Cheboygan County Humane Society, is accused of misappropriating around $10,000 of the organization's funds for personal use over several months. Brown was arraigned on February 23 on one count of embezzlement and released on a $5,000 personal bond, with a court appearance scheduled for March 19.

  • Richelle Brown was arraigned on February 23, 2026.
  • Brown is scheduled to appear in court again on March 19, 2026.

The players

Richelle Brown

A 34-year-old former employee of the Cheboygan County Humane Society who is accused of embezzling approximately $10,000 in funds from the organization.

Cheboygan County Humane Society

A non-profit organization in Cheboygan County, Michigan that provides services and care for animals in the local community.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on March 19 whether to allow Richelle Brown to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of strong financial controls and oversight at non-profit organizations to prevent the misuse of funds intended to support their important work in the community.