MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. – Erica Steinkamp, a former Girl Scout troop leader from Horry County, is set to stand trial next week, accused of stealing significant sums from her troop. Steinkamp faces charges of breach of trust with fraudulent intent after allegedly misappropriating over $20,000 in funds raised by the troop through cookie sales in 2023.
The trial is scheduled for Tuesday in Myrtle Beach. Steinkamp, 42, was arrested in May 2024 after concerns arose about missing funds. According to a police report obtained by WMBF News, Steinkamp failed to send more than $1,000 from fall sales to the Girl Scouts organization, as required. Further investigation revealed that the funds from cookie sales were also unaccounted for.
The theft left a lasting impact on the troop and its members. Moms whose daughters were involved in the troop have expressed their disappointment, with some recalling how Steinkamp continually delayed financial reports and failed to provide concrete dates for planned activities.
Diane Flanagan, CEO of the Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina, confirmed the missing funds and expressed frustration over the situation. “People saw what happened. People are aware of what happened, and they have questioned it,” said Christine Volosin, a concerned mother of one of the troop members. She added that the money is still unaccounted for.
If found guilty, Steinkamp could face up to five years in prison, or potentially probation with restitution to make up for the stolen funds. The case has sparked significant emotional distress within the local Girl Scout community, as the trust placed in Steinkamp as a troop leader was deeply betrayed.
