Woman Sentenced for Embezzlement

BROOKINGS, S.D. – In a shocking case of financial misconduct, 41-year-old Pennie Sue Malenke has been sentenced to six months in custody for her role in a major embezzlement scheme.

U.S. Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Malenke was sentenced on December 29, 2014, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier. The defendant, a former case manager and support coordinator for Advance, a non-profit organization in Brookings, was found guilty of stealing government funds.

According to court documents, Malenke had access to the bank accounts of individuals who received program benefit payments administered by the Social Security Administration. She used this access to write checks to cash, withdraw cash from ATMs, and make direct purchases from stores, ultimately stealing approximately $32,682.80.

Malenke was also ordered to make restitution in the amount of $4,291.12 to another victim. The defendant will serve three years of supervised release, including six months of home confinement. She was further ordered to report to the U.S. Marshals Service by noon on January 21, 2015.

The case was investigated by the Social Security Administration – Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ann M. Hoffman prosecuted the case, securing a guilty plea from Malenke on October 7, 2014.

The sentencing serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of financial misconduct. Malenke’s actions not only harmed the individuals she was supposed to serve but also undermined the trust placed in her as a public servant.

As the Grimy Times continues to investigate and report on cases of financial misconduct, one thing is clear: those who abuse their position of power will be held accountable. The sentence handed down to Malenke is a testament to the commitment of law enforcement and the justice system to protect the public and uphold the law.

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