Monroe City woman faces stealing charge after nearly $15,000 found missing from New London Ball Association

NEW LONDON, Mo. — A Monroe City woman recently was arrested by the Ralls County Sheriff’s Department after funds from the New London Ball Association were determined to be misappropriated.

Ralls County Sheriff Brad Stinson said in a press release that the New London Ball Association reported earlier this year about missing funds to the Ralls County Sheriff’s Department, and an investigation was started.  Investigators determined that approximately $15,000 of the New London Ball Association’s funds were misappropriated.  

A probable cause statement filed by Lt. John Davis with the Ralls County Sheriff’s Department said he received a complaint on Jan. 31 against Shelly K. Tarpein from two people who alleged she stole from the concession stand and a bank account with Royal Bank. The money was collected from entry fees for the 2023 season, concession stand profits and a fundraiser.

Davis said he was told Tarpein was the secretary for the association and she had obtained a credit card without consulting the association’s board. Multiple charges were found on the credit card that could not be accounted for. One of the witnesses said Tarpein used the card to buy items on Amazon that were not related to the association’s activities. Bank statements showed $14,803.42 was missing.

Davis wrote that he interviewed Tarpein on Feb. 27 about the account. She admitted to having the debit card and using it to buy items for personal use. Davis asked Tarpein if she was stealing money from the account, she replied, “I was using it, yes. Stealing is the word, yes.” 

Ralls County Prosecuting Attorney Rodney Rodenbaugh filed charge on April 4 of stealing $750 or more, a Class D felony. Ralls County Associate Judge David C. Mobley issued a warrant for Tarpein, setting her bond at $25,000 cash. same day bond

Tarpein was arrested May 16 by Ralls County Sheriff’s Deputies and posted bond the same day. She is represented by Public Defender Christopher Terrell. A preliminary hearing was scheduled for July 10, but Terrell requested a continuance.

Tarpein is scheduled for a preliminary hearing on Aug. 14 at the Ralls County Courthouse in New London.