NC officials investigate missing charity money

CHARLOTTE — Officials in a North Carolina county say two employees have been suspended in the investigation of $110,000 missing from a children’s charity.

The Charlotte Observer reported Thursday that officials said they would improve oversight of the Mecklenburg County Department of Social Services’ Giving Tree program.

The program solicits donations to provide Christmas gifts for foster children.

Officials said this week that two employees had been suspended with pay while the investigation continues, but wouldn’t say who was the focus of the probe.

DSS Director Mary Wilson says officials are trying to determine if the workers used donations for personal benefit.

County Commissioner Bill James says the donations should be refunded if wrongdoing is discovered.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)