by The general manager of the Applebee’s restaurant in State College, Pennsylvania, has been formally charged with embezzling over $33,000.
The theft was discovered after a series of discrepancies surfaced between transaction records and deposits from mid-2024.
What Happened
Shannon Lea Mathis, 45, from Altoona, faces multiple charges including theft, receiving stolen property, forgery, and tampering with records.
The charges came after Patton Township Police investigated discrepancies reported by the Flynn Restaurant Group, the franchisee managing the Applebee’s located on Colonnade Way.
Key Details
- The investigation revealed missing deposits totaling $33,406.26 from July to November 2024.
- The Flynn Restaurant Group noticed that deposit amounts did not align with transaction records.
- Paperwork appeared to have been carefully altered to hide the discrepancies.
- Area managers confronted Mathis, who initially admitted to owing the company “four or five thousand dollars.”
- Later, the actual missing amount was confirmed to be more than $33,000.
- Police described Mathis’ interview answers as rehearsed and hesitant on some questions.
Reactions and Statements
The Flynn Restaurant Group took swift action upon discovering the financial irregularities. Their cooperation with local law enforcement was critical to the investigation. No public statement has been issued by Mathis or her legal representatives.
Investigation and What’s Next
Mathis was arraigned by MDJ Casey McClain and released on $5,000 unsecured bail. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for May 21, 2025. The case is ongoing as authorities continue their investigation.
FAQs
Q1: What charges has Shannon Lea Mathis been charged with?
A1: Theft, receiving stolen property, forgery, and tampering with records.
Q2: How much money is reported missing?
A2: Over $33,000 ($33,406.26).
Q3: When did the alleged embezzlement occur?
A3: Between July and November 2024.
Q4: What is the next legal step in this case?
A4: A preliminary hearing scheduled for May 21, 2025.
Q5: Has the Applebee’s location or Flynn Restaurant Group commented?
A5: The Flynn Restaurant Group confirmed the missing funds and cooperated with police but has not issued a public comment.
Summary / Final Takeaway
The State College Applebee’s general manager is facing serious criminal charges following a significant embezzlement investigation.
The case highlights the importance of strict financial oversight in franchise operations. Legal proceedings will continue in the coming weeks.
