News Summary
Devon Horton, the former superintendent of Evanston/Skokie School District 65, has been indicted on 17 federal charges, including wire fraud and embezzlement. The indictment claims Horton took over $80,000 in kickbacks and misappropriated nearly $300,000 from the district. Three associates have also been charged. In light of these serious allegations, District 65 is implementing new safeguards to prevent future misconduct while community concerns about transparency and possible school closures are rising. Horton has been placed on paid leave in his new role in DeKalb County, Georgia.
Evanston, Illinois — Former Evanston/Skokie School District 65 Superintendent Indicted on Multiple Federal Charges
The former superintendent of Evanston/Skokie School District 65, Devon Horton, has been formally indicted on 17 federal charges, including wire fraud, embezzlement, and tax fraud, according to authorities. The indictment alleges Horton engaged in a kickback scheme that defrauded the district and interconnected public agencies, with significant financial repercussions.
Details of the Alleged Scheme
The indictment states that Horton, who served as superintendent from June 2020 until June 2023, received more than $80,000 in kickbacks from associates in exchange for routing district contracts to certain service providers. The scheme involved fraudulent contracts for essential services such as leadership coaching and security at district facilities. The total amount allegedly misappropriated from District 65 amounts to approximately $293,500. In addition, Horton is accused of misusing a district-issued purchasing card, which he used for personal expenses exceeding $30,000.
Additional Charged Individuals
Three of Horton’s associates—Antonio Ross, Alfonzo Lewis, and Samuel Ross—are also among those charged in connection with the scheme. They are accused of participating in similar fraudulent activities aimed at enriching themselves at the expense of the district.
Legal Consequences and Investigation
Horton faces severe penalties, with potential sentences of up to 20 years in prison for wire fraud. He also faces fines related to tax evasion charges. The indictment follows an investigation by the U.S. Department of Education that lasted more than two years, which uncovered the alleged misappropriation of funds and misconduct involving district resources.
District Response and Safeguards
In response to the allegations and subsequent departure of Horton, District 65 has implemented new safeguards designed to prevent similar mismanagement in the future, particularly around contract oversight and purchasing procedures. The school district’s leadership expressed deep concern over the findings, emphasizing the importance of maintaining trust and transparency with the community.
Community Impact and School Closures
Amidst the scandal, community voices have expressed concern over ongoing challenges faced by the district, particularly regarding potential school closures. During recent meetings, parents and community members questioned the district’s transparency, especially about how decisions are made regarding closing schools.
Parents’ Perspectives on School Closures
The PTA President of Washington Elementary School highlighted growing suspicion among parents about the district’s intentions, urging the district to provide more comprehensive data before proceeding with school closures. She advocated for a cautious approach, suggesting that no more than two schools be closed at the same time to minimize disruption to families.
Upcoming Decisions and Financial Challenges
A series of public input sessions and a school board meeting are scheduled, with a crucial vote on school closures expected on November 17. The district is currently facing substantial financial difficulties, with estimates indicating the need to cut up to $15 million in expenses to address budget shortfalls.
Horton’s Career Moves Following the Indictment
Following his departure from District 65, Devon Horton was hired as superintendent in DeKalb County, Georgia. However, local authorities have now placed him on paid administrative leave pending further investigation and proceedings related to the federal charges.
Impacts on District Trust
The indictment underscores a serious breach of trust within the district’s leadership. Current school board officials have acknowledged the gravity of the allegations and are committed to restoring integrity and safeguarding district resources for the benefit of students and staff alike.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Evanston RoundTable
- Chicago Tribune
- Daily Northwestern
- ABC 7 Chicago
- Chicago Sun-Times
- Wikipedia: Fraud
- Google Search: Devon Horton indictment
- Google Scholar: educational institution governance
- Encyclopedia Britannica: embezzlement
- Google News: Evanston District 65 scandal
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