Delta Air Lines Executive Assistant Accused of Embezzling $280,000

A former Delta Air Lines employee stands accused of embezzling over $280,000 from the airline, according to a complaint filed in U.S. District Court.

Emily McElwaney, who served as an executive assistant to two senior vice presidents at the airline over a seven-year period, used her employer-issued American Express card to purchase a variety of personal items over the period from February 2007 through September 2014. The purchases included “personal expenses, including restaurants, fuel, personal items and American Express gift checks“ according to the criminal indictment, which was filed on November 17, and totaled approximately $281,000.

The indictment goes on to say that McElwaney “logged onto Delta’s online expense-approval system using another individual’s credentials, and approved the expenses as if they were legitimate business expenses.”

The news was first reported by WSB-TV in Atlanta.

“Delta conducted a thorough investigation of this former employee’s conduct and turned the matter over to the justice system when our investigation concluded,” the airline said in a statement to WSB.

A plea hearing is being held next month. If convicted, McElwaney will forfeit any property that is traceable to the offenses she is charged with.

(Photo: Accura Media Group)