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SOUTHFIELD, Mich. (WJBK) - Jennifer Suidan, a Democrat running for a seat in the Michigan House of Representatives, is accused of embezzling at least $100,000 while working for the Detroit area attorney group Goodman Acker.
Goodman Acker is planning a press conference for 4 p.m. Monday at the offices in Southfield to address the allegations. According to the Goodman Acker, Suidan embezzled more than $100,000 while an employee for the personal injury attorneys while she handled numerous political campaigns.
"She has betrayed my trust and the trust of all who expected her to perform her duties, honestly and in compliance with the law," said Oakland County Treasurer Andy Meisner.
According to the attorney group, Suidan embezzled the money from the campaign of Meisner while working at Goodman Acker.
"We embarked on investigation, terminated her employment with the firm, reported to Oakland County law enforcement and we will be continuing our investigation to determine the full extent of embezzlement."
The irregularities discovered when Suidan decided to focus on her own campaign full time - running for Democratic state rep in the 39th District.
The Michigan Democratic Party released this statement after the press conference:
"The allegations against Jennifer Suidan are serious, and the only appropriate response is for her to suspend her campaign and we expect her to do so immediately. These allegations have no impact or connection to the rest of our candidates and we remain focused on the issues that matter to Michigan families."
Suidan is running as a Democrat for the 39th House District in Michigan and had Meisner's endorsement, until he learned of the alleged charges.
According to Gerald Acker, Suidan embezzled the money over the past six months. Acker said the firm has insurance in place to protect them from cases like this.
Acker said that Suidan took a leave of absence six weeks ago. After she left, discrepancies in her reporting were discovered.
"I can say that a wrong has been done to the people of Oakland County who gave of their hearts and their pocketbooks so that I could serve," Meisner said. "I am doing everything within my power to make sure this wrong is made right."
The Oakland County Prosecutor is investigating the case.