Former Ankeny Chamber CEO Arrested for Theft

Melisa Cox, the former president and CEO of the Ankeny Chamber of Commerce, has been arrested and faces multiple felony charges including theft, money laundering, and unauthorized use of a credit card for allegedly stealing over $250,000 from the organization over three years. The investigation began in November 2024 after a board member reported financial irregularities, leading to an internal audit that resulted in Cox's termination. She turned herself in to the Ankeny Police Department and is currently being held at the Polk County Jail. Cox faces six counts of first-degree theft, six counts of unauthorized use of a credit card, one count of second-degree fraudulent practice, and one count of money laundering. Reports indicate that she utilized a chamber-issued credit card for her fraudulent activities. A court appearance is expected shortly following her arrest.