Wednesday, December 25, 2013

Woman pleads guilty in embezzlement from Lansing school PTO

A Lansing woman who prosecutors say stole between $7,000 and $8,000 from a Lansing elementary school’s parent-teacher organization has pleaded guilty to an embezzlement charge.

Tammy McGrath, 34, pleaded guilty Monday in Clinton County Circuit Court to attempted embezzlement of more than $1,000 but less than $20,000, officials said. She faces up to 2½ years in prison. A sentence hearing is set for Jan. 27.

Prosecutors say McGrath, the onetime treasurer of the PTO at Sheridan Road Elementary, embezzled the money between October 2012 and July or August of this year.

When she was charged in September, McGrath was working as a bus driver for Lansing schools. She initially was placed on unpaid administrative leave, but now no longer works for the district, according to district spokesman Bob Kolt.

Clinton County Assistant Prosecutor Mike Clarizio said McGrath will have to pay restitution. Clarizio said McGrath disputes the total amount missing from the PTO accounts.

“There might have to be a restitution hearing to determine the exact amount,” he said.

McGrath’s attorney, Fred Blackmond, did not respond to messages seeking comment.

Sheridan Road Elementary is part of the Lansing School District, but is located in DeWitt Township in Clinton County.

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