TAZEWELL COUNTY, Ill. — A Manito woman who served as a secretary and financial officer at Spring Lake Elementary School has been arrested following allegations that she stole more than $150,000 in school funds for personal use.
Tazewell County Sheriff’s deputies said 54-year-old Patrika F. Rawlings was taken into custody Monday in Pekin after school officials reported suspected financial irregularities.
According to investigators, Rawlings allegedly used multiple methods to conceal the theft, including misusing school-issued credit cards, writing unauthorized checks, and accessing other school-related financial accounts. Authorities estimate the total amount taken exceeded $150,000.
Due to the large sum involved and the fact that the alleged theft targeted a public school, Rawlings is facing a charge of Class X felony theft, one of the most serious felony classifications under Illinois law.
Officials said the investigation remains ongoing and additional details may be released as the case progresses. Rawlings is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
