Tribal Council Woman Arrested For Embezzlement, Identity Theft

VALLEY CENTER–A former employee and member of the Tribal Council of the La Jolla Band of Luiseno Indians was arrested by Valley Center deputies on Thursday for alleged embezzlement, identity theft, forgery, and grand theft.

Destiny Nelson, 35, was booked into the Vista Detention Facility, according to the Sheriff’s department.

On Sept. 27, 2017, the Tribal Council contacted the San Diego Sheriff’s Department to report suspicious financial transactions made by an employee.

Investigators from the Sheriff’s Cyber/Financial Crimes Unit determined that Nelson unlawfully used her position to obtain approximately $68,000 in tribal funds. A warrant was issued for her arrest.

Charges were filed by the North County Branch of San Diego District Attorney’s Office.