FFA alumni treasurer accused of bilking organization out of $32,000

SHAWANO - A Clintonville woman accused of stealing $32,000 from the Shawano FFA Alumni was charged in Shawano-Menominee County Circuit Court.

Elizabeth A. Pahlow, 32, made her initial court appearance in April where she was charged with felony theft in a business setting of over $10,000. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 10 years imprisonment and a $25,000 fine if convicted.

According to a criminal complaint, Pahlow assumed the office of treasurer for the Shawano FFA Alumni organization in February 2017. At that time, the organization had a balance of $30,737 in its bank account.

Alumni members contacted law enforcement officials after noticing that the funds in the account were listed as $141 in Pahlow's February 2018 report that was to be read at the annual FFA banquet that month, according to the complaint.

Pahlow allegedly wrote 18 checks during her year in office, ranging from $100 to $3,000. In addition, two online transfers were drawn from the account for $500 each. Pahlow admitted to stealing the funds and said she intended to repay the FFA Alumni, according to the complaint.

The Clintonville women is free on a $25,000 signature bond of $25,000, and was ordered to have no contact with FFA alumni members and is prohibited from stepping foot on the grounds of Shawano Community High School or attending any Shawano FFA events. 

A preliminary hearing is set for May 22.