ASCENSION — A former Ascension Parish Schools employee was arrested for allegedly stealing over $12,000 while employed with the school district. Kayla Jones, 33, was arrested for felony theft of more than $5,000 but less than $25,000, according to the Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office.
APSO started investigating on April 30 after Ascension Public Schools officials reached out with information that Jones had reportedly stolen approximately $12,624.92 from Central Middle School.
An internal audit and investigation indicated that the funds were taken in multiple, smaller amounts, according to officials. A warrant was then issued for Jones’ arrest.
Jones turned herself into officials on June 2 and was booked into the Ascension Parish Jail. Her bond was set at $20,000. She posted bond the same day.
Ascension Public Schools Superintendent Edith M. Walker made 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. 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.”
The investigation is ongoing.
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