Biology professor charged with stealing $300,000+ meant for shark research

Feb 28

February 28, 2024

Case #: 2023-009703

The Bradenton Police Department has arrested the former treasurer of a non-profit organization dedicated to shark and stingray research.

Christine Bedore, 44, a biology professor and researcher at Georgia Southern University featured on National Geographic channel’s "SharkFest”, is charged with felony scheming to defraud in excess of $50,000 and criminal use of personal identification in excess of $100,000. Both charges are first-degree felonies. Bedore traveled from Georgia to Bradenton to turn herself in on Tuesday, February 27.

Detective Michael Carpenter began investigating Bedore in November 2023, after the American Elasmobranch Society (AES) president discovered she was stealing from the non-profit's checking and savings accounts. Bedore was the treasurer of AES since 2018. AES, which has members nationwide, uses a Bradenton mailing address.

Financial subpoenas indicate that for more than five years, Bedore made numerous electronic transfers and transactions totaling at least $300,000 and used the money for personal expenses, including medical procedures, a vehicle, subscription services, utilities, pet insurance, travel, entertainment, and more.

Financial documents also indicate unauthorized transactions for laboratory specimens and equipment used by Bedore.

The investigation continues.

If you have information about this case, contact Detective Michael Carpenter at michael.carpenter@bradentonpd.com. If you have information about a crime, you can submit tips anonymously to Crime Stoppers at manateecrimestoppers.com or 866-634-8477 (TIPS).