Moldovan kindergarten director fined for payroll fraud

A former kindergarten director in Moldova has been sentenced to a fine of 72,500 lei for fraud and falsifying public documents. According to the Bălți Prosecutor's Office, between 2023 and 2025, the individual created fictitious payroll records to simulate work performed by employees who were either absent or working fewer hours than reported.

The scheme involved several instances where salaries and bonuses were paid out based on false data, with a portion of the funds allegedly being diverted to the director. One specific case involved an employee on childcare leave who was paid 48,513 lei despite not being present. The investigation also revealed cases where individuals who were not officially employed were performing the work of registered staff. The defendant has admitted guilt to five criminal episodes, including two counts of fraud and three counts of falsifying public documents. In addition to the fine, the former director is prohibited from holding certain positions or engaging in specific activities for three years.