By Dawn Burleigh

The Orange Leader

 

A report of credit card abuse was made to Orange Police Department on Tuesday.

CASA for the Sabine Neches Region President Johnny Trahan and Vice President Kim Dickerson, according to a police report, stated a known female used a credit card without approval or consent to steal money from the foundation.

Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of the Sabine Neches Region gives voice to abused and neglected children in Hardin, Jasper, Newton, Orange, Sabine and Tyler Counties in Texas.

A CASA volunteer is appointed by a judge to provide factual information on behalf of a child caught in a difficult legal process.

The Orange CASA office began on September 24, 1994. It expanded to six additional counties: Hardin, Jasper, Newton, Tyler, Sabine and San Augustine.

“We’re also fortunate to have Michelle Jones who has come down from the Jasper office,” Trahan said. “I cannot comment on the situation at this time due to it is under investigation.”

CASA released a statement on Thursday: “CASA of the Sabine Neches Region is currently working with the Orange Police Department regarding a financial matter. As this is an ongoing investigation, we are unable to provide further comments at the current time. Through our staff and volunteers, we are able to provide a voice to children in the foster system. Our advocates work closely with CPS and the court system to ensure a child’s best interests are being served while in foster care. This service is provided at no cost to the counties we serve. Our Board would like to reassure our volunteers and community that the financial health of the organization will not suffer nor will the services we provide to the children in our 6 county area. We will continue to be the voice for those children who desperately need one. We sincerely appreciate your support.”