Five employees fired, accused of theft from Peoria nonprofit. Here's what we know

Five employees were fired from a Peoria nonprofit group and the Peoria Police Department has opened a criminal investigation after those employees allegedly illegally distributed gift cards.

Peoria Citizens Committee for Economic Opportunity announced Thursday it has informed the Peoria Police Department of possible theft and/or embezzlement taking place by former employees of the organization.

Peoria police spokeswoman Semone Roth confirmed the investigation.

PCCEO interim president John Edwards said the five employees were fired about two weeks ago and the police were notified around the same time.

"Recently we uncovered improprieties regarding the distribution of client gift cards requiring PCCEO to terminate several employees," Edwards said. "Because of this, law enforcement has been notified to investigate for legal charges. We expect law enforcement to investigate it thoroughly to determine whatever criminal charges are necessary against these former employees."

Edwards told the Journal Star that "short cuts were taken that violated our internal controls" in regard to gift cards being given to "people who were not qualified to receive the gift cards."

Edwards said the PCCEO is still going to "vigorously" pursue its mission during this time.

More:Why the executive director of a Peoria nonprofit is suing its founder