RITZVILLE, Wash. – East Adams Rural Healthcare took action to strengthen internal financial security after a 2023 audit by the Washington State Auditor’s Office revealed over $32,000 of misplaced funds.
The Adams County Public Hospital District let the state auditor’s office know about the potential loss of public funds on September 27, 2023. This prompted the investigation into the loss of funds.
They found out that the accounting clerk had altered four checks, which added up to $20,755, and deposited them into her personal account.
She also made unauthorized credit card purchases on personal items, including utility payments and home services, which added up to an additional $10,799.
Washington State Auditor’s Office said that auditors tried to interview the former clerk, but weren’t able to reach her. Eventually, the clerk sent a text apologizing and offering to repay the funds.
The office said that as of June 2025, no payments had been made.
The clerk pleaded guilty to four charges in April 2024 and received a 60-day jail sentence.
The auditor’s office said that the Adams County Public Hospital District has “since strengthened its internal controls to prevent future misappropriations.” Additionally, the district has plans to seek recovery of the funds and investigation costs from the former clerk.
