Former Ascension Public Schools employee arrested for felony theft
The Ascension Parish Sheriff's Office (APSO) says Kayla Jones, 33, is charged with felony theft of $5,000 but less than $25,000.
According to the sheriff's office, detectives started an investigation after being contacted by officials with Ascension Public Schools on Wednesday, April 30. Jones, a former employee, was reported to have taken approximately $12,624.92 during her time of employment.
An internal audit and follow-up investigation showed that the funds were taken in separate amounts over a period of time.
A warrant was issued for Jones, who later turned herself in. She was booked into the Ascension Parish Jail.
The investigation is ongoing.
Ascension Public Schools released the following statement:
'We have zero tolerance for any form of misconduct or financial mismanagement within our school system. Upon discovering indications of potential theft of funds at Central Middle School, we acted immediately by initiating a thorough investigation in partnership with an independent auditor and notifying law enforcement and the legislative auditor's office,' said Ascension Public Schools Superintendent Edith M. Walker. 'We are grateful for our partnership with the Ascension Parish Sheriff's Office for pursuing this case and protecting our school district. In Ascension, we are fully committed to transparency, accountability, and the protection of public resources, and we will pursue the matter to the fullest extent of the law.'
Superintendent Edith M. Walker
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