A former director of finance and operations for Habitat for Humanity of Central South Carolina, Ashley Clark Ingram, has been sentenced to two years in federal prison for embezzling more than $500,000 from both the nonprofit organization and the U.S. government. Her theft directly impacted the organization’s ability to serve families in need, delaying the construction of homes for at least 16 families.
How the Embezzlement Scheme Unfolded
While working as Habitat for Humanity’s finance director, Ingram applied for an employee retention tax credit from the IRS—without the knowledge or authorization of the organization. The tax credit, which was intended to help nonprofits and businesses retain employees during the COVID-19 pandemic, resulted in the U.S. Treasury issuing $388,550.75 to Habitat for Humanity.
Rather than using the funds for their intended purpose, Ingram diverted the money into personal bank accounts, ultimately stealing a total of $514,672.37 from the nonprofit.
Impact on the Community
Her crime had serious consequences. Because of her actions, Habitat for Humanity struggled to complete homes for low-income families, forcing some to wait longer than expected for safe, affordable housing. The organization also lost donors and faced setbacks in securing future funding due to the financial strain caused by the theft.
According to Habitat for Humanity’s interim executive director, the crime didn’t just damage the organization financially, but it shattered the trust of the community, which depends on the nonprofit’s integrity to carry out its mission.
The Sentence and Legal Consequences
After pleading guilty to theft of government funds, Ingram was sentenced to 24 months in prison by a U.S. District Judge. She was also ordered to pay restitution, including a remaining balance of $30,165.47 to Habitat for Humanity, a $10,000 fine, and a $100 special assessment fee.
A Betrayal of Public Trust
Prosecutors emphasized the irony and severity of the crime, pointing out that Ingram stole from an organization designed to help people secure housing. The judge overseeing the case made it clear that her actions harmed real families in need—families that were forced to wait even longer for a place to call home because of her greed.
This case serves as a stark reminder of why strict financial oversight is necessary for nonprofits. Organizations that rely on public trust and government funding must have strong safeguards in place to prevent individuals from abusing their positions—especially when the well-being of vulnerable families is at stake.