CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — Authorities in Chillicothe are investigating an alleged check fraud scheme involving Kathleen McKenna, a local woman accused of forging multiple checks and depositing them into her account at a local credit union.
According to a report by a Chillicothe police officer, the investigation began on July 31, 2024, after the branch manager of the credit union reported suspicious activity related to McKenna’s account. The manager claimed that McKenna, who opened the account earlier in the month, had deposited 13 checks, four of which were returned. The total amount allegedly involved is expected to exceed $1,000, and authorities believe the checks may have been forged due to similarities in handwriting.
As part of the investigation, officers seized several items as evidence, including bank records and original checks. On August 5, 2024, a search of McKenna’s property at the Ross County Jail allegedly uncovered additional checks belonging to other individuals. According to the police report, forensic analysis later revealed that some of these checks had been electronically converted at a retailer in previous years, and alterations had been made using white-out.
McKenna was interviewed by police while in custody. She allegedly denied stealing the checks but admitted to possessing and depositing them, claiming that other individuals had given them to her to deposit.
Subpoenas were issued for bank records and video footage from two financial institutions, and the evidence collected is now being reviewed by the Ross County Prosecutor’s Office. Charges against McKenna are expected to include eight counts of receiving stolen property (RSP), six counts of forgery, and six counts of theft.
According to court records, McKenna faced similar charges in 2022 and 2013. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue to look into the full extent of the alleged check fraud scheme.
EDITOR’S NOTE: Information in this story came directly from the police report provided to the Guardian. Any discrepancies should be directed to the reporting agency.