Petty crime is always distressing. But when people steal from a charitable or community cause, it’s doubly so.

Rumford Police revealed Tuesday that thousands of dollars have been taken from Rumford’s Moontide Water Festival Committee’s account.

The nonprofit committee raises about $40,000 per year for the weeklong July 4 holiday festival, which includes the town’s fireworks display. Police do have a suspect.

The incident serves as another reminder that good intentions are not enough to protect small charitable groups from theft.

Simple, low-cost accounting techniques can, however, provide a fairly effective barrier to chiselers. Local accountants can be tapped for tips, as well various state officials such as the state auditor or the state’s attorney general.

Public confidence is damaged when donated money or public money is stolen. Small groups have a responsibility to donors and the public to make sure it doesn’t happen.