The high school music program received a blow when it was reported to police that more $17,000 is missing from the Santa Paula Cardinal Music Boosters Assoc.
Details are scarce but band parents, families and members were notified Wednesday via a written statement noting that the money is missing, an “unexplained loss” being investigated by law enforcement.
The bank used by the boosters’ organization is involved in the investigation and has temporarily frozen band bank accounts, according to a statement issued by the booster club.
The Santa Paula Unified School District released a statement Friday noting it had “information that two members of the SPHS Band Booster Organization allegedly embezzled Booster funds raised or donated by students, parents and the community.”
The booster organization severed ties with the two unnamed individuals who according to the booster club’s statement had signatory authority for the account.
Santa Paula Police Commander Ish Cordero said the SPPD has been notified and is awaiting more information that would be needed for the investigation.
Reportedly, the loss of the funding will prevent the about 45 band members from playing in San Francisco next month.
Lucia C. Perez is seeking funds to allow band members to make the trip, and donations can be made online, www.gofundme.com/8miu8o
