Ex-Employee Indicted for Theft of Insurer’s United Way Donations

A Springfield, Illinois woman has been indicted for allegedly stealing at least $150,000, mostly in United Way donations, from her former employer, Horace Mann Insurance Company.

Gerri E. Ripka, 50, is accused of taking cash donations collected from the insurance company’s employees at United Way fundraising events. Ripka was also charged with cashing company checks and using the company credit card to purchase personal items.

Ripka had been an executive assistant at Horace Mann since 1990. Her responsibilities included coordination of the United Way campaign during the time of the thefts, from 1999 until she resigned on Nov. 15, 2004, the indictment said.

Horace Mann officials said they believed she acted alone. If convicted, Ripka could face up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.