In McHenry, 39-year-old Kelly M. Ference found herself in a web of legal troubles. Late last month, she was arrested on serious charges related to the theft of a significant amount of money. This incident not only shocked the local community but also raised questions about financial integrity. | Background Photo: Google Street View; Inset: Provided

Uncovering the Crimes of Kelly M. Ference

The First Incident - Stealing from the McHenry Baseball Association

In December 2017, Ference's actions came to light when police discovered that she had stolen more than $66,000 from the McHenry Baseball Association. She served as the treasurer, yet cashed 77 checks between July 18, 2016, and July 27, 2017, totaling $66,636 into her personal account. This act of betrayal not only impacted the baseball association but also violated the trust of those involved. Court records show that she was sentenced to three years in the Illinois Department of Corrections after pleading guilty to a Class 2 felony theft charge. She was also ordered to repay the stolen money, highlighting the severity of her actions.

The Second Incident - The $280,000 Heist from American Ad Bag

Kelly M. Ference's criminal activities didn't stop there. In unincorporated Woodstock, she managed to steal a whopping $280,000 from American Ad Bag. The company produces custom-printed non-woven, paper, and plastic bags. Ference deposited 160 checks addressed to the company into her personal bank account from January 10, 2023, to July 31, 2024. These checks were sent by the company's customers. The complaint filed in McHenry County Circuit Court alleges that she stole $280,252.33 in this scheme. It was discovered that American Ad Bag uses an endorsement stamp that advises only depositing the check into the company's operating account. However, that stamp was missing from the checks that Ference allegedly cashed into her own account, indicating that the checks were not authorized. The McHenry County Sheriff's Office investigated the case thoroughly and charges were approved against Ference on November 21. A warrant was issued, and she was taken into custody last Monday. After McHenry County Judge Carl Metz imposed conditions of her pre-trial release, she was released from custody. Ference is scheduled to appear in court again on December 31 for a status of preliminary hearing, where the details of her case will continue to unfold.