Taylorville YMCA employee convicted of stealing $292k from organization

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA) — A longtime employee of Taylorville’s YMCA has been sentenced to probation and restitution after she was convicted of stealing a large sum from the organization.

Federal prosecutors said Lori Zeitler, 65, used per position at the YMCA to steal at least $292,000 from the organization and was responsible for $600,000 in losses. Zeitler worked at the YMCA for 32 years in various roles, including as a bookkeeper.

Zeitler’s theft was discovered when the YMCA switched to internet-based accounting software. She was charged with five counts of wire fraud, and she pleaded guilty in March.

“As a YMCA employee of 32 years, Lori Zeitler developed a long-time pattern of embezzlement, using her position of trust to steal from her employer, and ultimately shortchanging the community the YMCA serves,” said FBI Springfield Special Agent in Charge Christopher Johnson. “We at the FBI and our law enforcement partners will always pursue justice in an effort to preserve the public’s trust in its valued institutions.”

At Zeitler’s sentencing on Thursday, U.S. District Judge Sue Myerscough noted that her crimes broke the trust between the YMCA and the community. She described Zeitler’s actions as “almost unbelievable.”

Myerscough sentenced Zeitler to three years of probation and $600,000 in restitution.

“The impact of the defendant’s deception is wide-reaching, as the money she stole deprived the Christian County YMCA of funds that should have gone towards needed facility improvements and to support programs for members,” said Assistant U.S. Attorney Sierra Senor-Moore. “The restitution order is a just result that will help the YMCA to continue their mission in serving the community.”

The investigation into Zeitler’s actions was performed by the FBI Springfield Field Office, the Illinois State Police and the Taylorville Police Department.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCIA.com.