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South Lake Tahoe Mayor Admits Embezzling Church Funds as DA Reviews Case

She also disclosed a recent suicide attempt, vowing to repay the money.

Overview

  • In an Oct. 6 letter to local outlets, Mayor Tamara Wallace acknowledged taking church funds over an extended period and said she is receiving mental‑health treatment.
  • Lake Tahoe Community Presbyterian Church terminated her employment on Sept. 26 and referred the matter to law enforcement, and the El Dorado County District Attorney is investigating.
  • Wallace said no city money was involved, turned over account numbers and passwords to church officials, and pledged to repay every cent and accept legal consequences.
  • A city spokesperson said municipal finances were not harmed, and both Wallace and Mayor Pro Tem Cody Bass plan to attend the Oct. 21 City Council meeting.
  • Bass was arrested on Sept. 26 near a bar by the state line and now faces misdemeanor trespassing and threats or harassment after the assault charge was dropped, which he denies.