DODGE CENTER, Minn. (KTTC) – Following a nearly two-month fraud investigation into the alleged misuse of Dodge Center American Legion funds, authorities have arrested a Dodge Center man.
Dodge County authorities report the investigation began in August 2026 after legion representatives discovered records indicating its former treasurer and commander Rich Klindworth, 52, has used more than $16,000 for personal expenses.
Further digging by authorities revealed more than $75,000 in suspected unauthorized spending online and in person dating back to 2024.
The Dodge County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant at a rural Dodge Center home Wednesday morning. During the search, investigators found multiple items including firearms in Klindworth’s home that appear to have been purchased with legion funds.
Klindworth made his first court appearance Thursday morning and is charged with one…
Investment fraud targets the human desire for financial growth by promising high returns with “low to no risk.”
- Ponzi Schemes: Named after Charles Ponzi, these schemes pay “returns” to earlier investors using the capital brought in by newer investors. There is no actual underlying business; the system collapses when new recruitment slows down.
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- Pump and Dump: Fraudsters spread false, positive rumors about a cheap stock (the “pump”) to drive up the price. Once the price peaks, they sell their shares (the “dump”), leaving other investors with worthless stock.
