Senator's Wife, Former Yale Chamber Treasurer Charged With Embezzling

(Source: MIRS.news, Published 03/09/2026) The former Yale Chamber of Commerce treasurer, the wife of Sen. Dan Lauwers (R-Brockway), has been charged with embezzling funds from the organization.

Kellie Lauwers, 64, faces arraignment on one count of embezzlement by an agent or servant of at least $20,000 but less than $50,000 and using a computer to commit the crime. Both offenses carry a penalty of up to 10 years in prison.

An arraignment date in 72nd District Court in Port Huron has not yet been set.

"Chambers of commerce play an important role in supporting small businesses and strengthening local economies, and individuals trusted with managing their finances are expected to do so with integrity," Attorney General Dana Nessel said Monday in announcing the charges. "My office remains committed to holding accountable those who embezzle funds meant to support these organizations."

Messages seeking comment from defense attorney Michael Donald Taylor and Kellie Lauwers were not returned.

When MIRS reached out to Yale Chamber President Kate DeRue, a woman answering the phone said the chamber has been advised by police not to comment on the criminal case.

It is alleged that Kellie Lauwers, who served as the chamber's treasurer from 2019 to February 2025, embezzled $35,200 by making unauthorized cash withdrawals and checks made payable to her.

A February 2025 civil lawsuit against Kellie Lauwers alleged the chamber discovered "discrepancies" in its financial statements in November 2024 and determined that Kellie Lauwers "had been writing herself checks in large amounts out of the chamber's bank accounts."

The chamber's civil suit alleged Kellie Lauwers admitted to taking the money.

Sen. Lauwers, who served six years in the House, is in his second term in the Senate. He currently holds the position of minority floor leader and serves as vice chair of the Energy and Environment Committee as well as serving on the Government Operations and Regulatory Affairs committees.