Former Salvation Army official accused of stealing donations

ATLANTA — Donors are outraged that the Salvation Army’s former finance manager is accused of helping himself to donations.

Gary Hilliard is now facing federal theft charges.

Volunteers say they were devastated to hear about the accusations.

“Throw the whole jail at him,” said one volunteer and donor. “There are so many needy people out here who depend on the Salvation Army.”

According to the criminal complaint obtained only by Channel 2’s Rachel Stockman, Hilliard stole thousands of dollars from between 2010 and 2012.

“Timing is everything, and the timing certainly couldn't be worse for Salvation Army,” said Brian Robinson, who runs Crisis Management PR firm. “The good news for the Salvation Army is that they are starting off on a good foot, because it’s also a brand we trust.”

A representative for the Salvation Army said, “We are deeply distressed by reports of such actions. Upon discovering or hearing allegations of financial wrongdoing, The Salvation Army took immediate action to protect the alleged victims by removing the accused from duty and turning the information over to local authorities.”

“I don't have much to give, and I give. To think someone is taking that and using it irresponsibly is absolutely heartbreaking, but I’m a true believer in karma,” said donor Julie Green.

The Salvation Army says they were able to re-coup the money, because insurance covered the cost.

Hilliard entered a not guilty plea and is now out on bond.

Here is the Salvation Army’s full statement:

"The Salvation Army Metro Atlanta is proud of the reputation it has built for 125 years as a trustworthy steward of donors' money; any incident that would undo that tradition is exhaustively reviewed. Our mission as a Church and social service provider is to help those in need in His name without discrimination; accordingly, we safeguard the donations entrusted to us to fulfill that mission. The Salvation Army does not tolerate financial misconduct and improprieties among its officers, employees and volunteers.  We are deeply distressed by reports of such actions. Upon discovering or hearing allegations of financial wrongdoing, The Salvation Army took immediate action to protect the alleged victims by removing the accused from duty and turning the information over to local authorities.  The Salvation Army cooperated fully with the authorities in their investigation and immediately began our own internal investigation of the matter. The Salvation Army did not lose any monies entrusted by donors. The services we provide were not interrupted because of this occurrence. Last year, The Salvation Army provided over 169,000 people with a warm meal and over 120,000 men, women, and children with shelter. The Salvation Army remains committed to doing the most good for suffering families in our community. We thank our donors for their continued support to helping fellow Atlantans in need."

WSBTV