The Discovery

On May 6, the Delray Beach Police Department responded to Forman Law Offices on NE 1st Avenue after suspicions arose that longtime legal assistant Renee Carmint had stolen funds from the firm. When confronted by the owner, Carmint admitted to taking about $25,000. But a review of business ledgers uncovered losses nearing $400,000.

Methods of Theft

Carmint had access to the firm’s bank accounts and also used the owner's signature stamp. Prosecutors allege she:

• Wrote 143 checks to herself totaling approximately $273,139.48
  
  
• Cashed 46 checks from a secondary account, worth around $65,250
  
  
• Transferred about $67,480 through 131 Zelle transactions from firm accounts

Investigators say she relied on a mix of rubber-stamped checks, internal transfers, and digital payments to carry out the scheme.

Confession and Explanations

On May 5, one day before the police were contacted, Carmint emailed her employer. She admitted to having a spending problem, said she had enabled her adult son by letting him use her bank card, and offered to liquidate her retirement fund to repay the firm. However, the banking information she provided only accounted for roughly $39,000, far below the amount missing.

What Triggered the Investigation

The investigation began after a lawyer noticed an unexpected overdraft in one of the firm's accounts. That prompted a closer review and revealed unauthorized activity across several accounts. Police built their case based on the check records, transfers, and email correspondence.

How the Money Was Spent

According to the affidavit, the stolen funds were used to support:

• Frequent dining out
  
  
• Entertainment and gambling
  
  
• Hundreds of money transfers to her son

Prosecutors say the spending habits revealed a mix of personal indulgence and financial support of family, all funded through deception.

Arrest, Charges, and Bond

Carmint was arrested and charged with grand theft over $100,000 and an organized scheme to defraud. She was booked into Palm Beach County Jail. At her court appearance, her bond was set at $700,000. If released, she will be placed under house arrest with GPS monitoring.

What This Means

A person entrusted with legal and financial responsibilities is accused of violating that trust over an extended period. The financial damage is serious, but so is the breach of ethical responsibility. It’s a reminder that even small firms must enforce strong internal controls.

Final Thoughts

When one person holds both financial access and approval authority, regular oversight is essential. What started with an overdraft could have ended much worse. This case highlights why audits and accountability cannot be optional—even for close-knit teams.