West Fargo, Cass County (trfnews.i234.me) — Federal prosecutors allege a former church business manager stole about $600,000. The case involves Faith Journey Lutheran Church in West Fargo, North Dakota.
Authorities say Carly Anne Tufte worked as the church business manager from 2019 through Dec. 13, 2024. Prosecutors say she handled bills, payments, and bookkeeping during that time.
How the issue came to light
According to the criminal complaint, a new pastor planned to review the church’s books. Investigators say Tufte resigned soon after that plan was shared.
Church leaders then began a closer review of accounts and records. Prosecutors say that the review uncovered an unexpected credit card account.
What investigators allege
Federal court records allege Tufte opened a credit card in her name and the church’s name. Prosecutors say the card statements were mailed to her home address.
They allege that church money was used to pay the credit card bill over time. Investigators estimate the total spending was around $600,000.
Prosecutors say the purchases included rent payments, vacations, and clothing. They describe the spending as personal and not tied to church work.
The complaint also alleges the account was not disclosed to church leaders. Prosecutors say the activity continued until the internal review began.
Charges filed in federal court
Tufte is now charged in federal court with five counts. The counts include bank fraud and access device credit card fraud.
A criminal complaint is an accusation, not proof of guilt. Tufte is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
How to follow the case
Many federal filings can be found through PACER. The U.S. Courts also explains how to find a case on PACER.
For background on financial crimes, the FBI posts resources on white-collar crime. The U.S. Department of Justice also lists federal justice resources.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.