San Joaquin County DA Charges Former Child Care executive with Misappropriation of Funds
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Stockton, CA – Cecilia Warren, the former Executive Director of Creative Child Care, Inc. (CCCI), was arraigned today on five felony counts related to the alleged misappropriation of $486,828.17 in public funds earmarked for Head Start and state preschool programs. The charges were announced by San Joaquin County District Attorney Ron Freitas.
According to court documents, between January 2023 and September 2024, Warren allegedly used a company credit card for unauthorized personal expenses. These purchases included personal vacations, a trip to London, a brunch cruise in San Francisco, an overnight retreat at Wine and Roses, cooking classes, and numerous items purchased from Amazon and retailers like Southwest Airlines, Macy’s, Sky Zone, and Dick’s Sporting Goods. The total value of gift cards alone reached tens of thousands of dollars.
Charges Filed Against Warren
- PC 424 (a)(1) - False Portrayal
- PC 424 (a)(2) – False Representation
- PC 424 (a)(4) – False Representation
- PC 504 – False filings
- 487 A – Grand Theft
Warren was released on her own recognizance, subject to search conditions, and is scheduled to reappear in Department 8C on December 8, 2025, at 8:30 a.m.
“Public funds are for the children and families we serve, not personal enrichment,” said district Attorney Freitas. “This office will hold accountable those who betray that trust.”
The case is being prosecuted by the Public Integrity Unit of the San Joaquin County District attorney’s Office.
about Creative Child Care, Inc. and Head Start
Creative Child Care, Inc. (CCCI) is a non-profit organization providing early childhood education and care services. Head Start is a comprehensive early childhood education program designed to promote the school readiness of young children from low-income families through services that are responsive to thier ethnic, cultural, and linguistic needs.
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