Audit Leads to Felony Corruption Charges in Scranton
DePasquale sparked investigation after school district audit found abuse of public trust
Audit Leads to Felony Corruption Charges in Scranton
DePasquale sparked investigation after school district audit found abuse of public trust
HARRISBURG (Sept. 18, 2018) – Auditor General Eugene DePasquale today issued the following statement about the first-degree felony charges filed today against the former Scranton School District fleet manager:
“I launched an audit of the Scranton School District in 2016, and the excellent work of my audit team uncovered potential criminal acts and misuse of public funds. I turned over all evidence to authorities, sparking an investigation that led to today’s charges – which is how the process is supposed to work.
“The path of this case shows exactly how my audits can make a difference in protecting students and taxpayer dollars.
“It’s clear the corruption we discovered affected student education by taking at least $1 million in taxpayer funds out of the classroom and causing teacher furloughs.
“Bluntly stated, this district is in one hell of a financial mess. When I released my audit and said the school officials needed to get their heads out of their asses, some board members didn’t like my ‘tone.’ For the sake of the students, let’s hope my tone is not their biggest concern today.
“One particular director, Bob Lesh, even said the audit could only be used as toilet paper. I’d love to know what he thinks of it now.
“Simply put, district officials must be more accountable moving forward as they repair the damage done.
“Today’s criminal charges should mark a turning point for Scranton School District students, staff and administration. It’s time the adults in the district refocus on their primary purpose: educating students.”
The 107-page audit, released in October 2017, contains nine findings and 38 recommendations for improvement.
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