Pocono News Section

Woman Accused of Embezzlement

Woman Accused of Embezzlement - Tuesday, June 8, 2010 at 04:07AM EST

Reported by: Andy Mehalshick
Tuesday June 08 2010

SCRANTON, LACKAWANNA COUNTY- Elizabeth Sichler of Harveys Lake left federal court in Scranton Tuesday with her lawyer. She faces a slew of charges involving her, now defunct, title search company.

According to federal arrest documents obtained by the I-Team, Sichler operated a company called "Priorty Search Inc." based in Kingston. She was supposed to help settle, finalize real estate deals and pay outstanding bills connected to properties, such as outstanding mortgages utilities and taxes.

Investigators allege that between 2005 and this year, Sichler embezzled $1.9 million, using it for personal use or even to pay her employees who knew nothing about the scheme.

Dozens of her customers started asking questions when they were being notified by banks and insurance companies that there was no money in their escrow accounts to settle their property sales. Investigators say she tried to hide her stolen money.

Investigators said there are at least 92 victims and there may be many more. If you had contact with Sichler or her company contact the Secret Service in Scranton (570) 346-5781.