In the small community of Corcoran, people are shocked over what happened. Britni Burden brings her son to the Corcoran Family YMCA everyday.“I guess you can say it's pathetic in a way. It's taking away from all the kids and all of the fun stuff they get to do so it's not only sad for the kids but sad for her,” said Burden.
On Friday Corcoran Police arrested 46-year old Karen Gomez Barrera after a seven month investigation of possible embezzlement. Barrera was a 23-year employee at the Corcoran Family YMCA, most recently serving as the executive director. Detectives reportedly found in Barrera's Tulare home up to 70-thousand dollars worth of stolen property. Flat screen TV’s, X-boxes, cameras, computers and gift cards. Items that were supposed to be used for different programs at the YMCA.
“We suspect she may have a gambling problem and so that's most likely the motive of the crime,” said Reuben Shortnacy, Chief of Corcoran Police.
The chief executive officer of Golden State YMCA, Tim Foster says Barrera was very active in the community. He sent CBS47 a statement, in part it reads, "We were all very surprised by these developments when we first discovered irregular transactions last fall." Foster says insurance has covered the financial loss so that programs aren't affected.
“It's a sad thing,” said Burden.
Barrera has since been released from jail. She's due in court next month.
