Audit: Hotel worker embezzled thousands

Laguna Beach Police are investigating an allegation that a longtime former employee of the Hotel Laguna embezzled more than $100,000 from the hotel, according to police records.

The employee, who had left the hotel in the last couple of weeks, has not been identified.

“The suspect was in a position to manage the daily fiscal operation” of the hotel, said Laguna Beach Police Sgt. Bob Rahaeuser.

The suspected embezzlement was discovered during an audit, Rahaeuser said.

Hotel owner Claes Andersen said he had been advised not to comment on the allegation.

The landmark hotel, at 425 S. Coast Hwy., is one of the oldest buildings in Laguna Beach.