Perfecting Church Fraud - Literally

Shenia Watson, aka Shenia Brown, actually tried to perfect church fraud but eventually failed. Watson now faces federal wire fraud charges for allegedly embezzling over $350,000 from Perfecting Church in Toledo, Ohio, where she was employed. Over several years, Watson reportedly used the church’s Cash App account to transfer funds to four personal bank accounts under her control.

Investigators allege Watson gained the church’s trust by posing as a loyal employee, submitting falsified monthly financial reports to the board to conceal her actions. She also allegedly obtained credit cards in the name of the church’s pastor, using them to cover business expenses and hide the church’s financial state—and her embezzlement. Within one year, Watson reportedly charged $13,988 at a hotel, $4,373 for a Delta vacation, $396 for travel luggage, and $501 for Versace items.

To protect your business or church from similar fraud, contact Fittz & Associates for a Certified Fraud Examiner for a fraud review.