Former Paris SSD Early Learning Coordinator indicted for theft

PARIS, Tenn. — The former Early Learning Coordinator for the Paris Special School District (PSSD) in Henry County has been indicted for theft.

Courtesy: TN Comptroller’s Office

Following an investigation by the Tennessee Comptroller’s Office, a report says it was determined that Allyson Palmer misappropriated at least $7,383.47 from both the PSSD and the W.G. Rhea Elementary School parent teacher organization (PTO).

The report shows that Palmer used her district-issued Walmart credit cart to make unauthorized personal purchases totaling $6,226.47. This included items such as cosmetic products, holiday gift wrap, gift cards, energy drink mixes, and outdoor goods.

Palmer also misappropriated $1,157 in PTO fundraising collection, according to the report, after the PTO sold lunches during the annual Paris Fish Fry. School video footage showed Palmer entering the secretary’s office and using a key to unlock a drawer containing the PTO collection envelopes.

Investigators also identified $404.71 in other “questionable purchases” that Palmer made, that were either not supported with receipts or not identified as appropriate instructional material for students.

According to the report, Palmer resigned from the PSSD on June 15, 2022. In July 2023, following the investigation, Palmer was indicted by the Henry County Grand Jury for one count of theft of property over $2,500, one count of fraudulent use of a credit card over $2,500, and one count of official misconduct.

“Credit card purchases should be reconciled with the monthly statements and reviewed carefully,” said Comptroller Jason Mumpower. “In this case, administrative staff failed to match or compare receipts to the monthly credit card statements or review the charges for appropriateness before paying the bill.”

Click here to view the full report.

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