(Dec 19 2008) - Porterville Police Dept - Press Release
by Sgt. Larry Rodriguez - Porterville Police Dept :
On December 12, 2008, the Porterville Police Department was contacted by officials from the Burton School District regarding the suspected embezzlement of funds by members of the district’s Parent Teachers Association. The matter had been brought to the attention of school officials by concerned parents. Upon receiving these concerns school officials immediately began an internal investigation into the matter.
The internal investigation revealed irregular bookkeeping, inaccurate records, and other discrepancies that appeared to validate the stated concerns of the parents. Evidence was present to suggest that funds had been embezzled by PTA board members.
While an audit to determine the exact dollar amount remains underway, initial estimates are in the range of several thousand dollars. With this information school officials contacted the Porterville Police Department.
The Porterville Police Department’s General Investigations Unit was assigned the case for further investigation and on December 19, 2008, we arrested PTA president Michelle Wilson and PTA vice-president Melissa Moore on charges of embezzlement.
Michelle Wilson posted bail and was released at the Porterville Police Department. Melissa Moore was booked with the Tulare County Sheriff’s Department.
The case remains under investigation and anyone with information regarding the matter is urged to contact
Detective Brett McGowen at (559) 782-7409 or Detective Sergeant John Hall at (559) 782-7421.
