Police investigating whether Lana Jacobs misused funds

Lana Jacobs, one of Columbia's best-known charitable service workers, has left the St. Francis House amid questions over the possible misuse of $20,000 to $40,000 or "possibly more" of donated money, according to a letter from her husband, Steve Jacobs, who is one of seven community members who run the charity.   ¦  

COLUMBIA — The Major Crimes Unit of the Columbia Police Department is investigating allegations that Lana Jacobs, one of Columbia's best-known charitable service workers, misused tens of thousands of dollars of donated money, Capt. Brad Nelson said today.

Through an audit, police will determine whether any money is missing , Nelson said.

Jacobs was a member of the St. Francis Catholic Worker community, which operates the Loaves and Fishes Soup Kitchen, St. Francis House for homeless men and Lois Bryant House for homeless women.

Her husband, Steve Jacobs, said the amount could be $20,000 to $40,000 or "possibly more," according to a letter he sent to local media today.

No criminal charges have been filed against Lana Jacobs, who has left St. Francis House and moved to St. Louis, her husband said.

Lana Jacobs declined to comment this morning.

"I don't have anything to say," she said before hanging up the phone.

Watch a 2007 video in which Lana Jacobs is one of several people talking about homelessness in Columbia below.