A private school manager in Cedarburg is looking at embezzlement charges.
Prosecutors say 42-year-old Heather Wenthold, during her brief tenure at Sonnenberg Schools, allegedly misappropriated school funds for personal use, including extravagant trips to Hawaii, a new basketball hoop, and even repairs for a hot tub.
The gravity of the situation is compounded by the fact that Sonnenberg Schools specializes in assisting children with special needs, amplifying the disappointment surrounding the alleged actions.
Heather Wenthold, responsible for overseeing the school’s finances, found herself in a position of trust that, prosecutors assert, she gravely abused.
Wenthold’s employment with Sonnenberg Schools was terminated in May, less than a year after she took up the role.
Her departure followed an observant school director who detected financial inconsistencies and brought them to the attention of law enforcement.
The allegations against Wenthold detail that she allegedly diverted nearly $89,000 of school funds for her personal benefit.
Beyond her position at Sonnenberg Schools, Wenthold also held a full-time position with the Cedarburg Art Museum.
However, following the revelation of the embezzlement charges, she has been relieved of her duties there as well.
Presently, Heather Wenthold is in custody on a bond set at $50,000.
The charges against her encompass a range of embezzlement accusations, as well as bail-jumping charges.
