Dear Friends and Supporters,
We are writing to share some unfortunate news about a series of thefts from our monastery’s dana (donation) box located in the Sala.
In November 2025, we became concerned that funds may have been improperly removed from our dana box. We began monitoring, and in early January 2026 verified a theft and contacted local law enforcement. The individual responsible has been charged and the legal process is now underway. We subsequently learned that the same individual had likely removed funds on multiple occasions, perhaps going as far back as October 2024.
We sincerely regret these incidents. Monasteries around the world occasionally face similar challenges, but we take deeply to heart our responsibility to safeguard the generosity entrusted to us.
What We've Done
Enhanced Security: The dana box has been replaced with a more secure system.
Law Enforcement Coordination: We worked closely with local police from the time we confirmed the theft, and the case is being resolved through the legal system.
Important Notice for Check Donors
Our primary concern is to gratefully receive and acknowledge all donations. Because we don't know exactly what was taken or when, we ask that if you put a check in the dana box between October 2024 and January 2026, please:
Review your bank statements to confirm whether your check was cashed
Check whether you received a donation acknowledgment from us
Contact us if you have any questions or concerns
If a check was not cashed, this means your intended donation did not reach us. Also, if you recall making a cash donation that was not acknowledged by us, this means it did not reach us.
We remain deeply grateful for your trust and support. We will continue to honor each gift with care and gratitude.
If you have questions, please contact our Treasurer at treasurer@jetagrove.us.
With gratitude,
The Jeta Grove Foundation Board of Directors
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who was responsible?
A: We worked with police, the person has been identified and charged, and the legal process is underway.
Q: Will there be a trial?
A: The legal process is ongoing. We're cooperating fully with authorities and trust the system to handle this appropriately.
Q: Why are we hearing about this now?
A: We waited until the legal process had moved forward and our new security was fully in place. We wanted to share clear, accurate information.
Q: How do I check if my check was cashed?
A: Look at your bank statements from October 2024 through January 2026. If you're unsure, your bank can help. You can also contact us to see if we sent a donation acknowledgment.
Q: What if my check never got cashed? Can I still donate?
A: Absolutely. If you'd like to honor your original intention, we'd be grateful.
Q: Should I still use the dana box?
A: Yes, it's safe. We also have other ways to give, you can find a list of options here: https://www.jetagrove.us/donations
Q: Has this happened at other monasteries?
A: It has, unfortunately. Monasteries are built on openness and trust, which can sometimes be taken advantage of.
Q: Who can I talk to if I have questions?
A: Reach out to our Board member and Treasurer, Joti, at treasurer@jetagrove.us, or ask to speak with one of our co-abbots in person at an appropriate time. We can’t offer more information than we listed above, but we're happy to talk and hear any concerns or suggestions.