BOTETOURT CO., Va. – Update:
The embezzlement case against the former executive director for the Botetourt County Chamber of Commerce has been “resolved”. The chamber released the following statement on Wednesday:
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The Botetourt County Chamber of Commerce issues the following official statement regarding today’s resolution of the criminal case involving disgraced former Executive Director Khari Ryder: After well over a year of thoughtful investigation by the Botetourt County Sheriff’s Office and the Botetourt County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office, Mr. Ryder was indicted earlier this year by a grand jury of his peers on felony embezzlement charges. Those investigative efforts uncovered a deliberate defrauding of the Chamber and its resources — resources that exist only through the support and investment of our members. Today’s result marks a significant milestone toward justice and accountability. Mr. Ryder was entrusted with leading our Chamber, and instead, he chose to defraud the very organization he was meant to serve. His actions were a betrayal of trust and a direct attack on the Chamber’s mission and the businesses that sustain it. This outcome makes clear that betrayal of trust has consequences. Through both our internal investigation and the criminal investigation, no evidence has been found that member data was directly compromised. The wrongdoing centered solely on the Chamber’s organizational resources. While this chapter has been painful, it has also made us stronger. Over the past year, the Chamber has engaged forensic accountants, strengthened financial oversight, and implemented safeguards to ensure that no one in a position of trust will ever again be able to abuse it. Today, the Chamber is operating in one of the healthiest and most stable positions in its 80- year history. Membership is growing, sponsorships are thriving, events are successful, and our financials are sound. We are preparing to launch new programs that create opportunities for businesses of all sizes, expand partnerships with local government and schools, and elevate Botetourt County as a premier place to live, work, and build. This is the official statement of the Botetourt County Chamber of Commerce on this matter. With this chapter now closed, we are focused fully on the future — a future defined by transparency, accountability,
Botetourt County Chamber of Commerce
Original:
A former executive director for the Botetourt County Chamber of Commerce was indicted on embezzlement charges, according to the chamber.
50-year-old Khari Ryder, of Roanoke, was terminated in September of 2023 after the board discovered personal misconduct by Ryder regarding the chamber’s finances. The Botetourt County Commonwealth’s Attorney has indicted Ryder on felony embezzlement charges.
The Chamber released the following statement regarding Ryder’s indictment:
The Chamber is pleased to receive this news and looks forward to seeing the legal process follow its natural course. As this is an ongoing legal matter, Chamber leadership has been advised not to comment further on the specific facts. We note, however, that Mr. Ryder’s actions have caused tremendous damage to the Chamber and left the organization in a precarious position. It was only through the unwavering support of our board and executive committee that we were able to navigate these difficult times. We understand the frustration and confusion that our members have felt, and we are grateful for their patience. The Chamber looks forward with renewed hope and confidence. We remain steadfast in our commitment to providing valuable resources that benefit our community and members. We are dedicated to transparency, accountability, and working collaboratively to ensure a prosperous future for the Botetourt County community. We look forward to sharing our plan and vision with you.
Botetourt County Chamber of Commerce
According to the Sheriff’s Office, Ryder was indicted for embezzlement on Monday and has been released on a $5,000 unsecured bond.