By Kathryn Reed

The investigation into former Lake Tahoe Humane Society leader Niki Congero is not limited to embezzlement allegations.

Congero, who was fired this spring from her job in South Lake Tahoe, had sought unemployment benefits. The nonprofit denied them. She appealed that decision. To do so meant giving testimony under oath.

Lake Tahoe News sought a transcript of that hearing from the state Employment Development Department.

“The EDD has declined to provide access to the records you requested,” was the email response. They said the information was privileged and not subject to the Public Records Act.

If Congero were to have lied to the judge about her circumstances, she could face perjury charges.

Congero is accused by the Humane Society of taking more than $100,000 from the agency. The Humane Society no longer responds to LTN’s calls or emails.

Congero left Tahoe earlier this summer reportedly for the Midwest. Because she is a native of New Zealand there is speculation she will try to leave the country. To obtain a no-fly hold on a person is a cumbersome process, and the crimes she may have committed may not rise to the level of federal intervention.

Local police officers have served several search warrants. More evidence leads to more questions, which could lead to charges beyond stealing money that was earmarked for dogs and cats. Detectives want to create an air tight case that will ensure the District Attorney’s Office presses charges. Until everything is in place, Congero remains free and to this day has not been charged with any crime.