An Opinion By Jan Bergemann 
President, Cyber Citizens For Justice, Inc. 

Published October 26, 2009

It looks like another board member got caught with the hands in the cookie jar.

According to files from the Clerk of Courts Broward County 17th Judicial Circuit of Florida, the office of State Attorney Michael J. Satz is prosecuting Eveline Wright, who was for many years the  treasurer and registered agent of THE PRESERVE AT CHAPEL TRAIL HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC. 

Eveline Wright was arrested on January 29, 2009 for FELONY ORGANIZED FRAUD and GRAND THEFT OF THE 2ND DEGREE (See: CRIMINAL COMPLAINT).

An investigation of the finances of the association by Detective Thomas Moran of the Pembroke Pines PD showed that association funds were used by Eveline Wright to pay personal bills and/or she misappropriated association funds for her personal use. According to sources, the total damage is estimated at $100,000.

Jury trial is set for December 7, 2009, in front of the Honorable M. Rodriguez-Powell. 

This case shows again that fraud and embezzlement are rampant in our community associations. Representative Julio Robaina proposed in spring (H 1397) to create a condo police force, paid for by the condo trust fund! Florida's association members need that more than ever! I could never understand the outcry of dismay over this proposal from attorneys and board members. 

WHAT DO THEY HAVE TO HIDE?