Philadelphia Travel Agent Charged With Theft

According to abclocal.com - a female travel agent in Philadelphia was recently charged with theft for taking approximately $200,000 from her clients. 

Pennsylvania law enforcement agencies are reporting that the travel agent, a 66 year old named Frances Balshan, had an excellent reputation when it came to putting together overseas travel packages for her clients.  She specialized in groups and group travel and had coordinated trips for local non-profits and the Philadelphia zoo.

However, people became suspicious when the suspect put together an east Africa tour for the St. Louis zoo this past year.  The travel agent collected $197,000 from her clients to set up a trip to Kenya and Tanzania.  However, investigators claim that only $10,000 was received by Africa tour coordinators, which means that $187,000 remained unaccounted for.

Shortly after, investigators became involved, and Frances Balshan was charged with theft by state prosecutors.  According to Montgomery County District Attorney, Lisa Furman, Frances Balshan, "...took the money for herself and converted all the funds for her own use."

Nancy Balshan claimed in court that she is both ill and broke and requested a public defender.  If convicted, Balshan could face jail time, court fees, probation and restitution. 

If you have been charged with a theft crime in Philadelphia, click here to find a qualified Pennsylvania criminal defense attorney!