You see a story about it all too often: A campaign’s treasurer is accused of embezzlement — stealing or misappropriating campaign money — for themselves or sometimes worse. This is a serious offense on many levels. It is a violation of law. It betrays the trust of hard-working donors that don’t make political contributions lightly. Like taxpayers, donors want their money used to further a candidate’s campaign, not to line the pockets of the bookkeeper.

Longtime Rep. Dana Rohrabacher appears to be the most recent victim. According to media reports, his treasurer of seven years has been accused of embezzling approximately $170,000.