LEWISTON, ID – A change of plea hearing has been scheduled for March 31 in the felony theft case involving a former executive director of Beautiful Downtown Lewiston, according to court records.
Court records show an agreement was reached during mediation in February, indicating a plea agreement is being negotiated in the case. Morgan initially pleaded not guilty.
Lewiston Police Department previously reported that Brenda Jeanine Morgan, 39, of Clarkston, is charged with one count of grand theft.
Investigators allege Morgan misappropriated more than $16,000 in nonprofit funds by using organizational bank accounts and credit cards for unauthorized purchases, personal expenses, and unapproved withdrawals.
According to the police report, the alleged spending included thousands of dollars at restaurants and bars, a $2,927.91 payment to Morgan’s personal credit card, and the purchase of electronic devices including a Microsoft Surface Pro laptop and an Apple iPad Pro. The report also details a $500 donation to a local soccer club, missing office equipment, and cash withdrawals made through Venmo.
Witnesses told investigators Morgan allegedly failed to provide receipts, canceled the nonprofit’s workers’ compensation policy without approval, and did not file federal tax returns for three years—resulting in an $8,500 fine that was reportedly paid without notifying the organization’s board.
Board members said concerns escalated in early 2024 during a meeting that ended after Morgan became upset when asked about financial records.
Police said Morgan had sole access to the organization’s accounts and used her position in violation of nonprofit bylaws.
The change of plea hearing is set for 1:30 p.m. on March 31.
