A local nonprofit that supports the LGBTQ+ community says criminal charges will not be filed in connected with alleged grant fraud by former staff members.
The Phoenix Center announced on Facebook on Thursday that Sangamon County State’s Attorney John Milhiser told the agency this week that an Illinois State Police investigation did not produce sufficient evidence to support charges.
The Phoenix Center staff and board said they were disappointed in the decision and are determining if any further action is possible.
The center’s board said alleged grant fraud has cast a “dark shadow” over the Phoenix Center for several years, as has the state’s “stop payment” status due to the allegations.
The board said the center has repaid the amount it identified as overpaid.
The board said it has addressed the issues by replacing former Executive Director Jonna Cooley and installing seven new board members as well as instituting new policies and procedures.