New Haven Women Charged with Ripping Off Hamden Church

An eight-month investigation into the stealing of checks from a Hamden church cumulated this week when Hamden Police arrested a New Haven woman on larceny and forgery charges.

The Christian Tabernacle Baptist Church at 425 Newhall St. contacted police on July 31, 2012 to report a fraudery and stolen checks.

"Investigation revealed that Denise Harvin allegedly stole several checks from a church employee," Police Spokesman Capt. Ronald Smith said in a release. "Further investigation revealed that 15 stolen checks were used to purchase items at area grocery and department stores. The total loss suffered by the Christian Tabernacle Baptist Church was $2,008.54."

On Tuesday of this week, Hamden Police arrested Harvin, 51, of 257 Barnes Ave., New Haven, on charges of fifth-degree larceny and third-degree forgery.

Harvin was held in lieu of $25,000 bond and appeared in Meriden Superior Court on March 19.

Det. John Marks conducted the investigation, Smith said.