Accused of taking over $55,000 from Oklahoma church

A former secretary and treasurer of a Chouteau Church was charged with embezzlement Thursday in Mayes County District Court.

Sandy Sullivan, who was relieved from her duties in March, is accused of “fraudulently” appropriating $55,229.96 for her own use while serving as treasurer of the Chouteau United Methodist Church.
A spokesman for the Mayes County district attorney’s office said Sullivan will make her appearance in court next week after her attorney, Ben Sherrer, can schedule the date.
Lynn Hershberger, Chouteau police officer, said an investigation was conducted earlier in May after the department received a complaint from the Rev. Alan McIntyre, pastor, who said the church was missing some money.
“We began reviewing bank statements with the pastor and the church’s accountant. There’s obviously been some deception in the bookkeeping. The money wasn’t handled appropriately,” Hershberger said. Hershberger said Sullivan was employed by the church in 2001 and the records which reflect the church’s financial activities were not all available.
Hershberger and Chouteau Police Chief Gary Shrum met with the Mayes County District Attorney’s investigator and the documents were turned over to the District Attorney’s office.
McIntyre or Sullivan could not be reached for comment Friday.
Sherrer did say Sullivan’s initial court appearance is scheduled Wednesday.