RUTHERFORD COUNTY, Tenn. — A professor at Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) has been arrested following an extensive investigation into allegations of financial crimes involving state funds.
On May 9, 2024, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) and the Tennessee Comptroller of the Treasury initiated a joint investigation into Don Hong, an MTSU professor, at the request of 16th Judicial District Attorney General Jennings Jones. The investigation uncovered that Hong had used his position to steal state funds between 2020 and 2024.
After reviewing Hong’s personal financial records, investigators found substantial evidence linking him to the theft of state funds intended for students. As a result, Hong was indicted by the Rutherford County grand jury on multiple charges, including two counts of theft, one count of forgery, one count of criminal simulation, one count of official misconduct, one count of official oppression, and one count of retaliation.
Hong was arrested on Wednesday, May 10, 2024, and booked into the Rutherford County jail. His bond was set at $500,000.
The case highlights the ongoing efforts of local authorities to address financial misconduct and safeguard state resources.
