Greenville Bookkeeper Charged With Embezzling Nearly $400K

The case was heard in federal court in New Albany.

The former bookkeeper of a New Albany-based business is facing up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for alleged securities theft. The office of the U.S. Attorney in the Southern District of Indiana says charges allege Cathy Rowan altered and deposited nearly $390,000 worth of Elite Heating and Air Conditioning Refrigeration checks into her personal account.

The charges involve making, uttering and possessing forged securities. The alleged crimes were investigated by the U.S. Secret Service and the New Albany Indiana Police Department and took place between early 2011 and June of this year. Rowan is alleged to have prepared more than 175 false checks.

U.S. Attorney Josh Minkler says "white collar crime is detrimental to our entire economy. Those who choose to steal from local businesses will be held accountable for their actions."

Rowan has an initial appearance before a magistrate judge Tuesday morning in New Albany federal court and no future court date has been set.