Former Obion County Central Baseball Booster Club Treasurer Indicted
An investigation by the Tennessee Comptroller’s Office has resulted in the indictment of Allison Baldwin, the former treasurer of Obion County Central High School’s Rebel Sliders Baseball Booster Club. Baldwin served as the club’s treasurer from June 2018 through June 2021. The investigation began after Obion County school officials reported missing funds.
Investigators determined that Baldwin stole at least $9,159.64 from the booster club by writing unauthorized checks payable to “Cash,” making unauthorized ATM withdrawals, and making a personal purchase using the club’s debit card. Baldwin admitted to taking the majority of this money for personal use.
The investigation found that Baldwin was able to conceal her misappropriations by altering club records and falsifying annual financial reports before submitting the documents to school officials. The records were altered to make it appear as if the fraudulent transactions were legitimate club purchases. While other club officers signed the reports before submission to school officials, they stated to investigators that they never asked questions or asked to see records because they trusted Baldwin.
Additionally, investigators have raised questions about 65 other purchases totaling $7,753.59. The purchases were made with club funds at various retail and food establishments; however, Baldwin could not provide supporting documentation to demonstrate these purchases were used exclusively for the club’s benefit. Baldwin stated that receipts for these purchases were in her home safe that was stolen during a burglary in June 2021.
Based upon this investigation, in October 2022, the Obion County Grand Jury indicted Allison Baldwin on one count of theft over $2,500.
“Our investigators noted several deficiencies in this club’s financial practices,” said Comptroller Jason Mumpower. “In some instances, club officials pre-signed blank checks. The club also failed to have strong controls over its debit card usage, retain invoices or receipts, and review bank statements promptly. Booster clubs are required by state law to safeguard funds and property.”
To view the investigative report, go to tncot.cc/doireports. To view a map depicting Comptroller investigations, go to tncot.cc/mappinginvestigations.
If you suspect fraud, waste, or abuse of public money in Tennessee, call the Comptroller’s toll-free hotline at 800.232.5454, or file a report online at: tncot.cc/fraud. Follow us on twitter @TNCOT and Instagram @tncot.
Media contact: John Dunn, Director of Communications, 615.401.7755 or john.dunn@cot.tn.gov
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