Bookkeeper charged with embezzling from clients

A Carson City bookkeeper was arrested on a warrant Monday for allegedly stealing money from a client.

George Makare, 59, was released on his own recognizance after being booked in the Carson City Jail about 3 p.m. on suspicion of felony embezzlement. Detective Dena Lacy said the decision to release Makare was based on the fact that this was not a violent crime and he has no criminal record.

He is the owner of A-1 Bookkeeping and Tax Service which he has operated on Fairview Drive since March 2004.

Lacy said the investigation into Makare's work began in January after a client lost her checkbook and began to periodically check her account balance to make sure no one was using the checks.

Instead, Lacy said, the victim spotted several transfers totaling more than $9,000 going from her account into Makare's.

"And he was still charging her a service fee even though he was ripping her off," she said. A gambling habit seemed to fuel the embezzlement, Lacy said.

At least two other clients were also embezzled from between June and January. They declined to press charges after a relative of Makare's paid them $25,000, she said.

The victim was also reimbursed her money by the relative.

Makare was not available for comment.

n Contact reporter F.T. Norton at ftnorton@nevadaappeal.com or 881-1213.