March 29, 2024
Local News | Kendall County Now


Local News

Founder of Oswego dog rescue arrested on theft charges

The founder of an Oswego-based dog rescue was arrested on four counts of felony theft for the alleged misuse of the rescue's funds.

A news release issued by the Oswego Police Department on Thursday, March 12, confirmed that Michaelene A. Majestic, 41, of the 500 block of Cardinal Avenue, Oswego, was arrested on four counts of theft, a Class 3 felony, following a two-and-a-half year investigation by Oswego police.

If convicted, Majestic could face up to five years in prison.

According to the news release, a report alleging misuse of funds was filed against Majestic in August 2017 at the Oswego Police Department. The report alleged that Majestic – the founder, chief executive officer and chief operating officer of Just Giants Rescue, Inc. – had, without prior approval from the rescue's Board of Directors, knowingly obtained or exerted unauthorized control over property of Just Giants Rescue, Inc. between $500 and $10,000, intending to deprive Just Giants Rescue, Inc. of said property to pay for personal expenses not related to operating the rescue.

Following the filing of the report, Oswego police detectives began investigating the report to substantiate the allegations. Detectives reviewed numerous documents obtained through subpoenas, conducted interviews, and worked with the Kendall County State's Attorney's Office during the investigation.

A warrant was issued for Majestic's arrest and Kendall County Judge Jody Gleason set bond for Majestic at $30,000 with 10% to apply, according to court records. Majestic was taken into custody Wednesday in Batavia by the Kendall County Cooperative Police Assistance Team and transported to the Kendall County Jail to await a bond hearing.

Majestic was later released after posting bond, according to jail records.

Majestic is due back in court 9 a.m. March 30 at the Kendall County Courthouse, 807 W. John St.

Shea Lazansky

Shea Lazansky

Oswego native, photographer and writer for Kendall County Now