Fraud Charges Against Former Employee Shock Alberta Orthotic Firm
Jon and Myra Allen of Alberta Orthotic and Prosthetics Centre reveal the emotional turmoil following employee Monika Manhas's fraud allegations, which greatly impacted their business and finances.
Jon Allen and his wife Myra, owners of Alberta Orthotic and Prosthetics Centre, share their disconcerting experience involving Monika Manhas, a former employee from Gold River, B.C. Initially referred to them for basic bookkeeping, she later became a vital part of their team. Their business focuses on creating orthotics, such as ankle braces and artificial limbs, aiding individuals with mobility challenges.
"The difference he makes in people's lives every day, saving lives, he can literally have somebody come in to see him in a wheelchair and walk out," Myra expressed, highlighting Jon's impactful profession.
In 2018, Myra was diagnosed with breast cancer, prompting the couple to assign more responsibilities to Manhas, who oversaw payroll, supplier payments, and other financial obligations as the business expanded.
Despite growing inventory and operational costs, the Allens became puzzled over their dwindling finances. Jon reflected on the difficulty of having to let go of a friend who was one of their clinicians.
In 2023, after receiving alarming news during a family trip, Jon discovered that Monika had been charged with fraud, alleged to have embezzled $537,141 from another company. The shocking news prompted immediate action from the Allens.
They went directly to the police to report their findings after scrutinizing their company records with an accountant and incurring additional costs for a forensic investigation.
On January 23, 2025, Calgary Police announced that Manhas faced charges of fraud and theft, accused of misappropriating over $575,000 from the Allens' business from 2019 onward. Allegations included making unauthorized payments to herself and using company funds for personal purchases.
Although the charges are still allegations, Jon expressed relief amidst their financial struggles, stating they still owe a significant amount. Once a team of twelve, their company now consists of six employees.
"We're broke," said Myra, emphasizing their resilience, "but we're not broken."
Global Calgary attempted to contact Manhas for a statement, but did not receive a response.
