Visalia Police captain charged with embezzlement, allegedly stealing from youth program

A Visalia Police captain was arrested on suspicion of felony grand theft — alleged to have stolen nearly $50,000 from a youth program designed to inspire children to pursue a career in law enforcement.

Luma Fahoum, 51, was charged with felony grand theft by embezzlement, four felony counts of grand theft, and one misdemeanor count of petty theft, according to the Tulare County District Attorney’s Office.

Using her access to a bank account tied to the Visalia Police Department’s Explorers Program, Fahoum allegedly stole from the nonprofit group from 2017 to 2023.

It’s alleged that Fahoum used the money for personal use at retail stores, gas stations and casinos.

The Visalia Police Explorers program, which is open to those who are at least 14 years old and up to 21 years old, has been a pathway for many future officers. It’s designed to connect children with police officers, as well as activities and the outdoors.

Fahoum was arrested Friday after surrendering herself to the Taft Police Department on an active arrest warrant and released on a $100,000 bail.

She is scheduled for arraignment on May 22 at Tulare County Superior Court.

Fahoum faces up to three years in a jail, in addition to paying the money back. Under current law, the charges brought upon Fahoum are not eligible to send her to a state prison.

Fahoum has been on administrative leave since Sept. 19, 2024, after Chief Jason Salazar learned of the embezzlement allegations about the captain from a member of the Visalia Police Department.

“As the Chief, I am heartbroken and disappointed with what led us to the criminal filing against Captain Fahoum,” Salazar said. “The captain position is the second highest position in the Visalia Police Department, and a position that carries great weight, responsibility and trust.

“When something like this occurs, it has a significant impact on the organization, on our community and to the entire policing profession.”

The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with further information is asked to contact the TCDA Bureau of Investigations at 559-636-5410.

This story was originally published April 28, 2025 at 3:00 PM.