Former Paris SSD Early Learning Coordinator Indicted for Theft
An investigation by the Tennessee Comptroller’s Office has resulted in the indictment of Allyson Palmer, the former Early Learning Coordinator for the Paris Special School District (PSSD) in Henry County.
Investigators determined that Palmer misappropriated at least $7,383.47 from both the PSSD and the W.G. Rhea Elementary School parent teacher organization (PTO). These stolen amounts include the following:
- Palmer used her district-issued Walmart credit cart to make unauthorized personal purchases totaling $6,226.47. These included items such as cosmetic products, holiday gift wrap, gift cards, energy drink mixes, and outdoor goods.
- Palmer also misappropriated $1,157 in PTO fundraising collection after the PTO sold lunches during the annual Paris Fish Fry. Video footage from the school showed Palmer entering the school secretary’s office and using a key to unlock a drawer containing the PTO collection envelopes.
Additionally, investigators identified $404.71 in other questionable purchases made by Palmer that were either not supported with accompanying receipts, or they were not identified as appropriate instructional material for students.
Allyson Palmer resigned from the PSSD on June 15, 2022. Based on this investigation, in July 2023, she was indicted by the Henry County Grand Jury for one count of theft of property over $2,500, one count of fraudulent use of a credit card over $2,500, and one count of official misconduct.
“Credit card purchases should be reconciled with the monthly statements and reviewed carefully,” said Comptroller Mumpower. “In this case, administrative staff failed to match or compare receipts to the monthly credit card statements or review the charges for appropriateness before paying the bill.”
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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