Embezzling funds: Ex-Meridian school staffer charged

JACKSON, Miss. (VDN) — State Auditor Shad White announced that special agents from his office have arrested Candace Morris, a former Meridian Public School District employee, for allegedly embezzling funds collected for drug screenings and background checks.

Morris was responsible for collecting the funds—primarily cash—and issuing receipts to individuals making the payments. She allegedly converted the funds for her personal use.

“We will continue to hold the line when it comes to improper spending of taxpayer dollars,” White said. “The dedicated team at the State Auditor’s Office will continue to work closely with prosecutors to get record results for taxpayers.”

If convicted, Morris faces up to $5,000 in fines and up to 20 years in prison for the embezzling charge. All individuals arrested by the Mississippi Office of the State Auditor are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Suspected fraud can be reported to the auditor’s office by clicking the red button at www.osa.ms.gov or by calling 1-800-321-1275 during business hours.