The woman, Jamie
Fonville, 46, of Tarpon Springs, was an account manager who
issued checks on behalf of 58 different HOAs for First
Choice Association Management, an HOA management company in
Palm Harbor.
In February, the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office became
aware of fraudulent activity involving a bank account
overseen by the company.
During their investigation, they learned Fonville had
manufactured fraudulent checks with three HOA’s account
information on them, and deposited the checks into her own
personal bank account, the sheriff’s office said. The report
did not mention the names of the HOAs.
Authorities said Fonville used the money to pay her credit
card bills and also spent it on Buccaneers game tickets and
daily living expenses, such as groceries.
“The total financial loss amongst all reported victims is
estimated to be $228,300.83,” authorities said in a news
release.
Fonville was arrested Friday and charged with three counts
of Felony Scheme to Defraud. She was booked into the
Pinellas County Jail and later released on a $500 bond,
according to online jail records.
Investigators suspect there could be more
victims. Those with information regarding the case are asked
to contact Corporal Kyle Cruise with the Economic Crimes
Unit at (727) 582-5711. |