BRADENTON, Fla. — A Georgia Southern University biology professor and researcher, featured on National Geographic channel, turned herself in to the Bradenton Police Department Tuesday after being charged with defrauding a non-profit organization.
Christine Bedore, 44, is charged with felony scheming to defraud in excess of $50,000 and criminal use of personal identification in excess of $100,000.
Police said they began investigating Bedore in November 2023, after the president of American Elasmobranch Society (AES) noticed money being taken out of the organization’s checking and savings account.
Bedore served as the treasurer of AES, a non-profit organization dedicated to shark and stingray research.
She had an over five-year history of transfers and transactions totaling at least $300,000, according to financial subpoenas recovered by the police department.
Officials said she used the money to pay for medical procedures, a car, subscription services, utilities, pet insurance, traveling and entertainment, among other things.
Financial documents also point to unauthorized transactions for laboratory specimens and equipment Bedore used.
AES sent a statement to 10 Tampa Bay in light of Bedore's recent arrest.
"This news is very unfortunate. However, our members are continuing with the important research and conservation work that supports our mission," the statement reads.
"Our dedication to support the next generation of scientists in the discovery and conservation of sharks, skates and rays will continue to remain strong."
The organization was featured in a premium National Geographic piece titled “Building a community and fostering a love for sharks” in July 2022.
The investigation is still ongoing.