In a shocking decision, a Texas elementary school secretary was found guilty of misusing funds and committing arson.?The secretary was found guilty of stealing more than $35,000 in school cash, which has financial ramifications for the school.
In addition to the embezzlement, the?secretary?was found to have purposefully set a fire in the school, putting pupils and employees in danger. The conviction highlights a violation of trust and ethical misbehaviour within an institution dedicated to developing young minds.
The case serves as a reminder of the significance of strict financial management and complete background investigations to protect the school's safety and well-being.
Prosecutors said a former secretary at the Houston, Texas, primary school pleaded guilty?this week to stealing more than $35,000 from the school and concealing it with a small fire.
Adriana Castorena-Narvaez claimed guilty to felony misapplication of fiduciary property on Thursday in return for five years of felony probation and $37,521.64 in restitution to the Houston Independent School District (HISD), according to FOX?Houston.
Prosecutors said Castorena-Narvaez formerly worked in the administrative office of C.E. Barrick Elementary School and took the money over three years.
After becoming suspicious, the principal questioned Castorena-Narvaez in October 2022. To avoid meeting with her supervisor, she created a tiny fire that caused minimal damage to the school.?
Assistant District Attorney Robert Buss of Harris County stated that his agency "is committed to ensuring that government employees do not misappropriate public funds."??
"This case brings a just result for the students, parents, and teachers of C.E. Barrick Elementary," he continued.
If Castorena-Narvaez fails to repay the money or violates any of the terms of her probation, a judge may revoke it and send her to prison. The offence she was guilty of carries a maximum sentence of ten years in prison.
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