A former elementary school administrator in Tazewell County is facing felony theft charges for allegedly using the school’s financial accounts for personal gain.
Patrika F. Rawlings, 54, was arrested Monday in Pekin and booked into Tazewell County Jail, according to a news release from Sheriff Jeff Lower.
Rawlings, the former secretary and financial officer at Spring Lake Elementary School in unincorporated Manito, allegedly misused school credit cards, bank checks and other accounts, totaling more than $150,000 in unauthorized spending.
According to the news release, the school reported the alleged theft to the sheriff’s office in August.
Rawlings is charged with a Class X felony, based on the amount stolen and because the alleged theft involves school money.
Lower’s statement said his office takes allegations involving public institutions and schools “very seriously.”
“We remain committed to protecting public resources and ensuring accountability through thorough and professional investigations,” the statement read.
