A member of the Liberty Ranch High School Athletics Booster Club is facing felony charges after nearly $200,000 vanished from the club's accounts. Galt Police Department, in a social media update, revealed that a routine audit uncovered the missing funds, which prompted an extensive investigation leading to the arrest of former treasurer Carmela Baker.
The Galt Police Department launched the investigation after a board member reported financial irregularities. Investigators examined transactions involving multiple businesses — including Costco, Walmart, Amazon, Instacart, and City of Galt utilities — to trace unauthorized purchases. Officers executed several search warrants at Carmela Baker’s residence, recovering electronic devices and financial documents relevant to the case. In a public statement, the Galt Police Department noted that the case has had a significant impact on the community, citing concerns about trust and accountability.
After months of gathering evidence, the Sacramento County District Attorney's Office was satisfied to issue a felony arrest warrant for Baker on July 23. Attempts to apprehend her at her home on the day of the arrest were initially fruitless, but GPD officers managed to eventually locate and apprehend her at an Elk Grove business later that afternoon. Baker, without any complications, was booked into the Sacramento County Main Jail facing charges of embezzlement.
The Liberty Ranch High School Athletics Booster Club supports more than 400 student-athletes by funding sports programs and related activities, underscoring the importance of proper financial stewardship. The Galt Police Department acknowledged the role of community members in the investigation, thanking those who came forward with information. “We are proud of the diligent work by our officers and detectives in bringing this case to resolution,” the Galt Police Department stated in a social media post.
