Doncaster Bookkeeper Jailed For Theft

A contract bookkeeper from East Doncaster was recently jailed for stealing $891,000 from her employer

Duvelle Jeffrey, a mother of two, managed to siphon off the money from a group of direct sales companies while working as a contract bookkeeper between 2005 and 2009.

One wonders how the companies didn’t notice the missing money – apparently she’d been able to hide the stealing by finger pointing financial discrepancies at other people, playing staff off against each other.

When one of the managers expressed concerns about the dwindling funds in company bank accounts he was told by the bookkeeper that he needed to improve his business practices.

How do you know if your bookkeeper is stealing?

• Ensure you have checks and balances in place
• Does your bookkeeper have the ability to sign checks, make bank withdrawals, use bill pay etc?
• Do you let the bookkeeper enter bills and then cut and sign cheques?

From time-to-time ask to see copies of receipts, invoices, etc so your bookkeeper knows you’re involved and are keeping your eyes on the books.

Your involvement in the day to day bookkeeping activities reduces the chances of your bookkeeper being tempted to steal from you.