Fargo, N.D. — Cheri Gerken, the former executive director of Presentation Partners in Housing, is facing felony theft charges after being accused of embezzling over $200,000 from the organization. Court records indicate that a private forensic accountant discovered Gerken used her company credit card for unauthorized purchases between 2019 and 2023.
As a result of the investigation, Gerken was fired from her position at the non-profit. The charges against her could carry a sentence of up to 20 years in prison if she is convicted.
Gerken, who has expressed remorse, explained that she struggled with financial challenges, particularly after her divorce. She filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in May of the previous year.
The charges against Gerken highlight concerns about financial oversight within non-profit organizations and the importance of preventing fraud.
