A former finance director for Habitat for Humanity in Central South Carolina has been sentenced to two years in federal prison for stealing over half a million dollars from the organization and the government. Ashley Clark Ingram, 35, pleaded guilty to theft of government funds and was sentenced last month by U.S. District Judge Mary Geiger Lewis.
Ingram misused her position to apply for an employee retention tax credit from the IRS during the COVID-19 pandemic. She did this without the nonprofit’s knowledge and received checks totaling $388,550.75 from the U.S. Treasury. Instead of using the funds for their intended purpose, Ingram deposited the money into a Habitat for Humanity account that she controlled and then transferred it to her personal bank accounts.
In total, Ingram misappropriated approximately $514,672.37. Along with her prison sentence, she will also serve two years of supervised release after her time in prison. The court ordered her to pay back $30,165.47 to Habitat for Humanity, a $10,000 fine, and a $100 special assessment fee. Ingram has already repaid most of the stolen funds.
The case has drawn attention not just for the amount stolen but for the impact on Habitat for Humanity. Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott Matthews highlighted the irony of stealing from an organization that helps people secure housing. As a result of Ingram’s actions, 16 families in South Carolina experienced delays in their home construction projects.
Habitat for Humanity’s interim executive director, Emily Fernald, expressed concern over the damage to the organization’s reputation. She noted that many individuals who seek help from Habitat for Humanity face tough financial situations, yet they do not resort to crime.
Ingram’s attorney argued that she stole the money due to personal financial struggles, including her husband’s job loss and their unsafe living conditions. She reportedly used some of the stolen money to purchase a new house. However, Fernald pointed out that many people in similar situations choose to act ethically.
Judge Lewis remarked on the consequences of Ingram’s actions, stating that the charity and the families they serve would have to overcome the challenges created by her theft. The case serves as a reminder of the trust placed in nonprofit organizations and the importance of accountability.