SANTA FE, NM – Today, State Auditor Tim Keller released a special audit of Deming Public Schools. The audit resulted in 19 findings and identified nearly $145,000 in public funds that were likely stolen from the District. State Auditor Keller designated Deming Public Schools for a special audit after receiving information from the school district about the potential mishandling of money by a former employee.

"We see our fair share of fraud, but it's especially disappointing to see tens of thousands of dollars apparently being taken from kids by an employee for personal use," stated State Auditor Tim Keller. "We appreciate the cooperation of the district and law enforcement in working with us to get to the bottom of these serious allegations."

The OSA will be forwarding the report with potential criminal violations, including fraud, larceny, embezzlement, forgery, and making or permitting a false public voucher to law enforcement and the District Attorney. The Deming Police and the Sixth Judicial District Attorney's Office were also previously made aware of potential violations when concerns were first raised.

The full report is available here: https://www.saonm.org/media/audits/7021__Deming_Public_Schools__Forensic_Consulting_Report_-_November_2017.pdf

The Office of the State Auditor helps government work better by providing transparency and accountability for government spending; informing policy choices; and tackling fraud, waste and abuse. OSA is an independently elected executive agency responsible for examining the use of public dollars in New Mexico.