BELLINGHAM, Wash. — A former Bellingham businessman likely feels he picked the wrong person to watch his finances when he moved out of town, as she’s accused of stealing more than $215,000.
Ronald Vandiest, who goes by “Rob,” owns Lightning Electric on Smith Road.
Court records state that 37-year-old Tiffany Lynn Anderson worked as bookkeeper and accountant for the business, and Vandiest left her in charge of that and some of his personal finances when he moved to Moses Lake.
He first noticed strange activity on a personal bank account she had access to.
A further investigation revealed the full amount she allegedly took from that account, the business and an investment account.
Charging documents say she stole the money by writing checks, diverting funds and overcharging the business for commissions.