Owner of Lake Charles Cheer Team accused of theft

Published 11:27 am Tuesday, February 27, 2024

The owner of Lake Charles Cheer Team has been arrested after several investigations revealed she was responsible for theft.

Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Kayla Vincent said Office Financial Crimes detectives arrested Jaime K. Crawford, 42, one three counts of theft after she allegedly collected funds from clients for services that were never rendered, totaling about $3,900.

Vincent said Crawford also used a victim’s credit card, which was left on file at the business for monthly cheer dues, to make fraudulent charges.  The purchases, which totaled over $1,500, where made at a local veterinarian’s office, emergency animal clinic and pet groomer.

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“When detectives spoke with Crawford, she confirmed she collected funds for services that she did not render,” Vincent said. “She denied using a victim’s card for personal use, however the investigation revealed all charges benefited Crawford or her pet.”

On Monday, Crawford was arrested and booked into the Calcasieu Correctional Center.  Judge Tony Fazzio set her bond at $30,000.

Vincent said Crawford was allowed release on her own recognizance for the charges associated with this case, but remains incarcerated due to an outstanding warrant unrelated to these charges.

Det. Shelli Fontenot is the lead investigator on these cases.