Steve is deep in debt due to a gambling problem. He is the bookkeeper for a family-owned business, Cal Poly Greenery. The company has only three employees - Steve, the husband, and the wife. All three have been friends for many years. One day the loan shark who lent Steve $20,000 comes knocking at his door asking for repayment of the loan. Steve convinces the loan shark to give him another day. The following day Steve writes a check on the company's books to himself for $20,000. Since he reconciles the bank accounts and prepares the financial statements, Steve knows it's unlikely the owners will ever know about what he has done. From an ethical perspective, Steve has
A) Violated the trust placed in him by the owners
B) Risked his reputation if the owners find out
C) Compromised his integrity
D) All of these

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Steve has violated the trust placed in him by the owners by using company funds for personal use. This action also compromises his integrity as a bookkeeper who is responsible for accurately recording all financial transactions. If the owners find out, Steve risks damaging his reputation and losing their trust. Therefore, all three choices apply in this scenario.

Steve Is Deep in Debt Due to a Gambling Problem