GRAND HAVEN, Mich. — Police are looking for a former Grand Haven Area Public School administrator who is believed to have embezzled more than $100,000.
In a release on Tuesday, the Grand Haven Department of Public Safety said GHAPS Assistant Superintendent Brian Wheeler was wanted on one count of embezzlement and one count of using a computer to commit a crime. A felony warrant has been issued for his arrest.
Authorities started an investigation in early November after a person(s) reported noticing transactional irregularities in accounts managed by Wheeler over a period of time.
According to GHAPS, Wheeler was placed on administrative leave on Nov. 5. On Nov. 22, after he "failed to appear at multiple investigatory interviews to explain," the district fired him.
“We are shocked and distressed that a trusted member of our leadership team, someone with more than 20 years of employment with the district, may have embezzled from our schools,” said Superintendent Andrew Ingall.
While the exact amount of allegedly embezzled cash has yet to be determined, it is estimated that the amount exceeds $100,000, according to law enforcement. A final audit is pending. It's not known how long the alleged embezzlement took place or how it would impact GHAPS's resources.
Authorities say Wheeler likely fled outside the area.
GHDPS says Wheeler might be driving one of two vehicles: a cream-colored 2013 Buick Enclave (Michigan license plate DTH 1844) or a 2005 Monaco motor home (Michigan license plate EKE 7580).
Those with information in connection to Wheeler’s whereabouts are asked to call public safety officials at 616-842-3460 or Silent Observer at 877-88-SILENT. Tips can also be submitted online here.
