DC Minister Betrays Nonprofit, Gets Prison Time

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In a shocking turn of events, a 71-year-old minister and former head of the Ward 8 Democrats in Washington, D.C., has been sentenced to a year-and-a-half in prison for her involvement in a scheme to steal money from a nonprofit organization aimed at aiding economically disadvantaged residents in the District.

Rowena Joyce Scott, once entrusted with leading the Park Southern Neighborhood Corporation (PSNC), a nonprofit tasked with providing affordable housing for underprivileged residents, was convicted on charges of wire fraud, credit card fraud, and tax-related offenses following a trial in June 2023.

Scott's betrayal of trust extended over several years, from January 2010 to May 2014, during which she served as president of the board of directors and manager of PSNC. Instead of fulfilling the organization's mission, she orchestrated a scheme to embezzle over $150,000 from its coffers.

Under Scott's management, PSNC failed to complete essential renovations for ADA-compliant units and neglected to make crucial loan payments to the District. Meanwhile, Scott lived rent-free in the apartment complex and utilized its facilities for her personal ministry, all while failing to report her income, legitimate or otherwise, for tax purposes.

The severity of Scott's actions has resulted in not only a prison sentence but also an order to pay hefty restitution totaling $201,158.04 to the PSNC and the Internal Revenue Service. Additionally, Scott has been slapped with a criminal money judgment of $153,432.04.

This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of accountability and oversight within nonprofit organizations. It underscores the devastating impact of individuals who exploit their positions of power and trust for personal gain, ultimately jeopardizing the very communities they were meant to serve.

As investigations by agencies like the IRS Criminal Investigation and the DC Office of Tax and Revenue continue to root out such misconduct, it is imperative for nonprofit boards and stakeholders to remain vigilant in safeguarding their resources and upholding their commitment to serving the public good. The sentencing of Rowena Joyce Scott should serve as a cautionary tale for those who may be tempted to abuse their positions for illicit gain, reaffirming that justice will prevail in the face of betrayal.