Canada-wide warrant issued for former First Nation employee

SASKATOON – A former employee is being sought by RCMP in connection to a theft of over $1 million from the Whitecap Dakota First Nation’s accounts.

RCMP have issued a Canada-wide warrant for 40-year-old Hugo Gallegos for theft over $5,000.

Whitecap Dakota First Nation Chief Darcy Bear says the amount of money missing is seven-figures.

“We will continue to work with the RCMP and our external financial accountants to determine the amount of funds stolen by Hugo Gallegos” said Chief Bear.

“I want to assure our Whitecap members, our business partners and the general public that, while the amount of money that has gone missing is substantial, in no way are our services, commercial operations or obligations in jeopardy,” said Bear.

The First Nation was first alerted to financial irregularities by its external auditors and on Sept. 5, accountants determined it to be theft.

Gallegos used to work in the First Nation’s accounting department.

On Sept. 6, RCMP received a complaint from the Whitecap Dakota First Nation relating to the missing funds and issued the warrant last week.

RCMP say Gallegos may have left the country as he has ties to his native El Salvador.

He is described as 5’9”, having a light complexion, brown eyes and brown hair. Gallegos is known to wear glasses or contacts.

The investigation is ongoing and further charges are expected.

Anyone with information is asked to contact their local police agency or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.