Former California charity CEO charged with stealing $1.2m in public funds

Gwendolyn Westbrook, former CEO of the San Francisco homeless services charity United Council for Human Services, faces nine felony charges for allegedly stealing over $1.2 million in public funds between 2019 and 2023. Prosecutors claim Westbrook engaged in unauthorized self-payments, improper withdrawals, and fraudulent reimbursements while having near-exclusive financial control of the non-profit. The diverted funds were reportedly used for personal expenses, including luxury vehicles and purchases at high-end retailers. Westbrook, who led the organization for nearly two decades, was dismissed in 2023. She is charged with misappropriation of public funds, grand theft, and filing false tax returns. This case follows similar charges against another Los Angeles homeless services CEO accused of misusing $23 million in taxpayer money for personal luxuries.

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