SANFORD, N.C. (WNCN) — Jordan Marie Allred, 36, a former employee of Lee County Schools, was arrested for allegedly embezzling nearly $200,000 from the school district, according to an arrest warrant.
The school board uncovered a payroll discrepancy on March 13, prompting an immediate investigation and law enforcement involvement. Allred was terminated the following day.
Board Chair Sherry Lynn Womack explained that Allred used her payroll oversight role to divert funds into her personal accounts and altered records to conceal the theft. The fraudulent activity is believed to have started sometime in 2022.
Attempts to get a comment from Allred at her Sanford home were unsuccessful.
In response, the North Carolina Office of the State Auditor has launched a rapid investigation into potential misappropriation of funds within Lee County Schools.
State Auditor Dave Boliek stated, “Our goal is to provide an objective account to assist in resolving what appears to be financial malfeasance.” He added that his team’s audit is expected to last about a week.
The school district is cooperating closely with law enforcement and the auditor’s office to ensure transparency and maintain public trust.
Allred was released on a $250,000 bond and is scheduled for her first court appearance on Thursday.
