Four Charged in $2M Catholic Charities Embezzlement Scheme

Indictment alleges finance director, CFO, and two others stole from Milwaukee non-profit over several years

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

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Four people, including three former Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Milwaukee employees, have been indicted on 15 federal charges after a years-long embezzlement scheme in which they allegedly stole nearly $2 million from the non-profit organization.

Why it matters

The alleged theft of such a large sum from a charitable organization that provides critical social services to the community raises concerns about financial oversight and accountability at non-profits, as well as the potential impact on the vulnerable populations they serve.

The details

According to the indictment, finance director Brandi Ellis and CFO Jason Flanders issued unauthorized checks to themselves and third parties from the non-profit's bank accounts. Ellis is also accused of using the organization's credit cards for personal purchases, including at Gucci and the Venetian/Palazzo in Las Vegas. The two other defendants charged are Ramon Hernandez and Jezlia Barajas.

  • The alleged embezzlement scheme took place over several years.
  • Brandi Ellis is scheduled to make her first court appearance on February 20, 2026.

The players

Brandi Ellis

A 45-year-old former finance director at Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Milwaukee who is accused of issuing unauthorized checks to herself and others, as well as using the non-profit's credit cards for personal purchases.

Jason Flanders

A 51-year-old former CFO at Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Milwaukee who is accused of issuing unauthorized checks to himself and others from the non-profit's bank accounts.

Ramon Hernandez

A 45-year-old individual who is one of the four people indicted in the alleged embezzlement scheme.

Jezlia Barajas

A 39-year-old individual who is one of the four people indicted in the alleged embezzlement scheme.

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What’s next

If convicted on all charges, each person faces up to 55 years in prison.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of strong financial controls and oversight at non-profit organizations to prevent such large-scale theft and misuse of funds intended to support vulnerable communities.