Woman accused of embezzling nearly $40k from Humboldt business

HUMBOLDT, S.D. (Dakota News Now) - A 40-year-old woman from Montrose, Amanda Siemonsma, has been charged with grand theft, a class four felony, after allegedly embezzling nearly $40,000 from a Humboldt business over a four-year period.

The incident came to light on February 22, 2024, when a controller at the business noticed a suspicious purchase made with Siemonsma's company credit card. The charge, which was $300 at a nail salon, raised red flags, leading to a further review of her account activity.

Upon examination, the review uncovered nearly $40,000 in questionable transactions, with Siemonsma using the card for personal expenses at various retailers and entertainment venues, including Target, Sephora, and Amazon. During a meeting with the human resources department, she admitted that the charges were attributed to personal use, resulting in her termination.

Following her dismissal, Siemonsma sent an apology letter to the business along with a cashier's check for $38,470 to address the embezzled funds.

More than a year after the fraudulent charges were discovered, Siemonsma was arrested and appeared in court on Thursday. She was granted release on a personal recognizance bond.