BROOKINGS — A man who served as treasurer of a local foundation has pleaded guilty to embezzling nearly $25,000 from the charity over a period of more than three years.

Nicholas Kleven of Brookings, 45, admitted to embezzlement as a Class 4 felony last Wednesday in a Brookings County district court.

Kleven was arrested for stealing from the Loban Memorial Foundation in December after the charity asked the Brookings Police Department to investigate its finances. 

The foundation was established after sisters Ashley Loban, 17, and Amanda Loban, 10, were killed in a traffic accident on May 22, 2006, southeast of Brookings while on their way to school. 

A BPD investigation found Kleven had embezzled more than $14,000 from the foundation, according to a police release at the time.

According to Brookings County State’s Attorney Dan Nelson, Kleven made restitution in the amount of $24,996.42.

"This case illustrates the importance of organizations, but especially these charity funds to have thorough oversight,” Nelson said in a statement to the Register. “Unfortunately, Mr. Kleven and others like him see an opportunity and prey on these funds because of their vulnerability. Thankfully he was caught and now faces the consequences of his actions. The judge has full discretion to impose up to 10 years in prison."

Kleven is due back in court for sentencing on Aug. 28.