By: Richard L. Smith
A former chief financial officer of a Burlington County nonprofit organization has been charged with allegedly embezzling over $2.5 million, engaging in money laundering, and committing tax fraud, according to information released by the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office.
Authorities also charged her husband with receiving stolen funds linked to the scheme. 
Colleen Witten, 55, of Buena, New Jersey, was charged with multiple financial crimes, including theft by unlawful taking, forgery, money laundering, and tax evasion.
Her husband, Allan Witten, 55, faces a charge of receiving stolen property.
According to a statement released by Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin, the alleged theft is particularly concerning because the nonprofit organization provides services to adults with disabilities.
Authorities claim Witten used her position as comptroller, and later chief financial officer, to siphon millions from the company’s bank accounts over several years.
Investigators allege that between May 2019 and March 2024, Witten misappropriated approximately $2.58 million from the organization.
A portion of the stolen funds—more than $500,000—was allegedly transferred to a landscaping business she controlled in an effort to disguise the source of the money.
From July 2020 to April 2024, Witten also allegedly failed to pay $174,480 in income taxes. Her husband, Allan Witten, is accused of knowingly receiving $189,000 in stolen funds in March 2024.
The charges carry significant legal consequences if Witten is convicted.
The first-degree financial facilitation charge alone carries a sentence of 10 to 20 years in state prison and a fine of up to $500,000.
Other charges, including second-degree theft, could add up to 10 years behind bars, while third- and fourth-degree offenses carry additional prison time and financial penalties.
Authorities emphasized their commitment to holding individuals accountable for financial crimes, particularly when funds intended for public benefit are misused.
“The alleged theft of funds from a nonprofit doing important work is especially troubling,” said DCJ Director Theresa L. Hilton. “We are always working with our partners to find this kind of criminal activity and bring those responsible to justice.” 
Legal proceedings will determine the next steps in the case. Both defendants remain innocent until proven guilty in court.