Former Business Owner Sentenced for Embezzlement and Passing Checks with Insufficient Funds in San Luis Obispo County

Andrea Ruth Bowengardner, a former business owner from San Luis Obispo, was sentenced on Monday to 1,040 hours of community service and felony probation for embezzlement and passing a check with insufficient funds. Bowengardner, who now lives in Burbank, operated the Timeless Treasures business from 2016-2019 until it closed abruptly. Many cosignors had property in the store and were left without their belongings or payment for items sold, despite their efforts to retrieve them.

The SLO County DA’s Office reports that dozens of cosignors were affected by Bowengardner’s actions. As part of her sentence, Bowengardner will have to complete over 1,040 hours of community work service and adhere to standard felony probation terms and conditions. She is also required to make restitution payments to 69 victims totaling $338,764.71.

The exact amount of restitution payments will be determined on August 14th. If Bowengardner violates her probation, she could face a maximum sentence of five years confinement. This case serves as a reminder of the consequences of financial crimes and the importance of upholding ethical business practices in the community.