Scott Miller
CTV News London Videographer
Laura Pethick, the former executive director of the Foundation for Education Perth Huron, has been charged with multiple offences, including fraud over $5,000, uttering a forged document, and mischief to data. The charges stem from an investigation into fraudulent activities that allegedly took place between November 2022 and March 2024, where Pethick is accused of using fraudulent cheques to purchase gift cards.
Pethick, a resident of Stratford, was hired by the foundation in July 2021. After her dismissal in early March 2024, the foundation discovered irregularities that led to the investigation and subsequent charges. Foundation for Education Perth Huron’s Board Chair, Colleen Schenk, expressed disappointment over the situation but reassured supporters that the foundation is focused on moving forward and ensuring such incidents do not occur again.
“Although our executive director was dismissed without cause in early March, irregularities were later discovered leading to an investigation and the subsequent charges. The situation is very disappointing but the foundation board is focused on moving forward,” Schenk said.
Pethick, who previously worked for the Canadian Cancer Society’s Huron-Perth chapter, has denied the allegations, with her lawyer, Andrew Porter, stating that she “categorically denies these allegations of impropriety” and looks forward to addressing the charges in full.
The investigation by Stratford Police revealed that the fraudulent purchases of gift cards were made using the foundation’s cheques. The charges against Pethick have rocked the community, but Avon Maitland District School Board Director of Education, Graham Shantz, reassured the public that steps are being taken to ensure the safety of future donations.
“We are working cooperatively with the foundation board to ensure that funds are secured and that future actions are taken to protect charitable donations,” Shantz said.
Despite the charges, the foundation’s work continues, and donations are still being accepted as usual. Schenk concluded by emphasizing the foundation’s commitment to its mission: “We are carrying on the good work of the foundation and wish to assure our supporters that this valuable support will continue.”
Pethick’s next court appearance is scheduled for September 7.