MONROE, La. – A Monroe woman has been arrested after an audit revealed she stole more than $182,000 from New Iona Presbyterian Church in West Monroe, according to court documents.
The West Monroe Police Department (WMPD) began investigating after church officials discovered that bookkeeper Joni Smith allegedly used $11,498.52 in church funds to pay her personal bills.
A forensic audit later uncovered a broader pattern of misappropriation, showing that Smith transferred funds from multiple church bank accounts into personal accounts, including a retirement account in her name.
Investigators report that from 2022 through late 2024, Smith is believed to have taken a total of $182,185.60 from the church.
Smith was charged with one count of theft greater than $25,000 and is currently being held on a $50,000 bond.
Authorities say the investigation is ongoing.
