Demand justice for mishandling of funds at Forest County Humane Society

Prepared by: Chrystal F. Ross Director of Operations FCHS

The Issue

For many years, the Forest County Humane Society in Crandon, Wisconsin, has provided safe shelter and compassionate care for animals in need. As a nonprofit, no-kill organization, we are committed to protecting every animal that comes through our doors. That work is only possible because of the trust, generosity, and advocacy of our community and supporters.

What Happened

We were devastated to discover that funds entrusted to our organization were mishandled. These actions have pushed the Humane Society to the brink of bankruptcy and now threaten our ability to continue serving the animals who depend on us. Beyond the financial damage, this breach of trust has deeply affected the supporters and community members who have stood beside us for years.

Why Accountability Matters

The Forest County Humane Society calls on District Attorney Alex Seifert and the Forest County District Attorney’s Office to pursue charges against the person responsible. Misuse of charitable funds can lead to serious criminal consequences, including felony charges such as embezzlement, wire fraud, or theft by swindling, along with substantial fines and prison time.

Seeking justice is essential not only to hold the responsible party accountable, but also to protect the future of our organization and the animals in our care. Taking legal action sends a clear message that this kind of betrayal will not be tolerated and helps preserve confidence in nonprofit organizations throughout our community.

How You Can Help

We urgently need your support. By signing this petition, you can help hold those responsible accountable and restore confidence in the Forest County Humane Society. Together, we can protect this shelter as a safe haven for animals in need and ensure it continues to serve the community with dedication and care.

If you would like to contact District Attorney Alex Seifert directly, you can write to:

·         daforest@da.wi.gov and alexander.seifert@da.wi.gov

·         Forest County District Attorney

·         200 E Madison St

·         Crandon, WI

Please feel free to use this template to email District Attorney Seifert and add your own thoughts and credentials.

[Insert current date]

Dear District Attorney Seifert,

I am writing regarding the pending charges against Denise Marie Bostron in DA case number 2026FO000338, involving Wisconsin Statute 943.20(1)(b), Theft in a Business Setting exceeding $10,000 but less than $100,000, a Class G felony. I respectfully ask that you consider the significant harm these alleged actions have caused to the animals in the care of the Forest County Humane Society and to the organization’s ability to continue serving the community.

Impact on the Humane Society and Animals

The Forest County Humane Society is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit that depends on donations and community support to remain open and care for animals in need. The alleged misappropriation of funds has had effects far beyond financial loss. It has disrupted current operations, threatened future services, and undermined public trust in an organization that vulnerable animals depend on.

Most importantly, the consequences have affected animal welfare directly. According to this account, inaccurate records and failures related to available funds contributed to animals being denied necessary care and, in some cases, may have cost lives. That harm cannot be fully remedied by repayment alone.

Request for Accountability

For these reasons, I respectfully urge you to prosecute this matter to the full extent of the law. Doing so would not only address the harm done in this case but also send a clear message that misconduct within nonprofit organizations can have devastating real-world consequences for the people and animals they are meant to protect.

Please help give voice to the animals that cannot speak for themselves and stand with the community in seeking accountability in this matter.

Respectfully,

[Insert your name]

[Insert your contact information]