A South Bay foster mom accepted thousands of donated toys meant for needy children but instead, she allegedly sold the toys at garage sales and kept the cash.
Virginia Kelly, 73, was arrested at her San Ysidro home Wednesday. The four foster children she cared for are now in the custody of Child Welfare Services, according to prosecutors.
“Stealing from a charity and depriving needy children in San Diego of the chance to get a new toy is despicable,” said DA Bonnie Dumanis. “This criminal investigation has identified someone who brazenly took advantage of the community’s goodwill and trust for many years.”
Not only was Kelly a foster mom but this "Not-Your-Mom of the Year" also served as president of the Latino Foster Parents Association.
In the past three months, investigators seized more than 11,000 toys from Kelly’s home and two other locations, including a Chula Vista storage unit she rented, according to a release issued Thursday from the District Attorneys Office.
If convicted, Kelly faces up to four years in prison.
Prosecutors are looking for others who may have helped Kelly sell the toys. If you purchased toys from Kelly or know anyone who may have been involved in this operation, call (619) 531-4475.
