Director arrested for allegedly stealing

KARNACK — The financial director for Karnack ISD was arrested Thursday for allegedly stealing public funds for personal use. The Harrison County Sheriff’s Office said an investigation was launched in early February after the school district reported suspected financial irregularities in district funds. Subpoenas were issued, and officials reviewed financial and credit card records. Authorities allege the review revealed that Karnack ISD’s financial director, Courtney Johnson, used district funds for personal expenses through unauthorized credit card transactions.

Officials said the probe identified more than $128,000 in district funds that were allegedly misappropriated.

Since then, Johnson has been charged with theft by a public servant, misapplication of fiduciary property of a financial institution and credit card abuse.

She was booked into the Harrison County Jail on Thursday. The investigation remains ongoing and additional charges are expected as the case continues.

“Public servants are entrusted with taxpayer funds and any misuse of that trust is a serious offense. I commend our Criminal Investigations Division for their thorough investigation and our Patrol Division for their swift action in locating and apprehending the suspect. We remain committed to protecting the public and ensuring accountability for those who violate that trust,” Sheriff B.J. Fletcher said.