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Sault Michigan Police investigate largest case of embezzlement on record in Chippewa County

Authorities believe the amount to be more than $500,000. Three people are in custody
Ramada Ojibway Hotel Sault Michigan
Ramada Ojibway Hotel. Source: DaysInn.ca

ABC 10 News out of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula reported earlier today that three suspects have been arrested in connection to what is believed to be Chippewa County’s largest case of embezzlement on record.

Sault Ste. Marie Michigan Police “received a complaint alleging embezzlement from the Ramada Ojibway Hotel in the fall of 2017. The investigation into the complaint led police to multiple suspects from Chippewa and Mackinac counties.”

In addition to embezzling funds, authorities allege that customer credit cards used at the Ramada Ojibway Hotel were overcharged and refunds refused. Investigators estimate the total amount embezzled exceeds $500,000.

Multiple search warrants were executed at a variety of residences, financial institutions and businesses, and on Jan. 11, 2018, arrest warrants against three suspects were authorized. Charges against them include “conducting a criminal enterprise, which allegedly involved embezzlement, larceny and forgery.”

Names will not be released until the three suspects have been arraigned and additional arrests are expected.

Now under new management, the Ramada Ojibway Inn and its owners “have demonstrated a commitment to rectifying the situation for their guests.” Those who believe their credits cards were overcharged at the establishment are encouraged to contact Detective Harp from the Sault Ste. Marie Police Department at 906-632-5752 or by email at dharp@saultcity.com.