Security by definition means “the state of being free from danger or threat”.
Brinks, Inc is an example of a security firm that provides such services by securing properties. In an unexpected twist, Brinks found themselves at the wrong end of theft of funds by an employee.
Ms. Makayla Small of Memphis, Tennessee worked as a cash processor for the security company and between June and August of 2022 stole company funds.
While investigating deposit shortages, Ms. Small was identified on camera taking money while counting deposits. The manager who uncovered the misappropriation of funds subsequently filed a police report. This manager also confronted Ms. Small who allegedly admitted to stealing the money. The theft during the 3-month span totaled $640,211. Unfortunately for the company, Ms. Small returned only $30,000 to Brinks, according to police. Ms. Small was arrested and charged with theft of property greater than $250,000.
SDC has experienced many unfortunate stories of employees responsible for processing cash deposits stealing amounts similar to this and more. Whether depositing safe monies at the bank or processing cash as a primary job function, it is important to account for all incoming and outgoing cash funds on a consistent basis.
Luckily in this case there was surveillance footage showing the theft – leading to a smoother process in recovering a partial amount of the lost funds. However, catching the individual in the act on camera is not always the case. Therefore, it is pivotal to insure against these scenarios in the event the theft is not as obvious as watching the crime occur on camera.
Dredd, P. (2023). Memphis Woman Charged With Stealing More Than $640,000 While Working For Brink’s. Dreddsworld. https://dreddsinfo.com/2023/06/memphis-woman-charged-with-stealing-more-than-640000-while-working-for-brinks.html
Photo by khezez
