POMPANO BEACH, FLORIDA — A former Catholic school principal in Broward County has been convicted in a fraud case after prosecutors said she secretly arranged unauthorized payments totaling more than $230,000 from the school she once led.
Authorities say the woman served as the longtime principal of St. Coleman Catholic School in Pompano Beach and used her position to obtain additional payments beyond her official salary over several years.
A jury ultimately found her guilty of running what prosecutors described as an organized scheme to defraud, a serious charge under Florida law that could carry a sentence of up to 30 years in prison.
Fraud Scheme Spanned Several Years
According to prosecutors, the scheme took place over an extended period between 2016 and 2024. During that time, investigators say the former principal arranged extra stipends and payments that were not properly authorized by the school.
Those payments were reportedly deposited directly into her personal bank account. Authorities estimate the total amount involved in the fraud reached approximately $238,000. Investigators believe the payments were added on top of her regular salary while she served as the school’s top administrator.
Irregularities Reported in 2024
The alleged scheme was uncovered after financial irregularities were reported to law enforcement in November 2024. Once authorities began examining the school’s financial records, investigators discovered a pattern of payments that raised concerns about unauthorized compensation.
The investigation eventually led to criminal charges being filed against the former principal. Prosecutors presented evidence during the trial outlining how the payments were allegedly arranged and transferred over the years.
Jury Finds Former Principal Guilty
After hearing the evidence, a jury convicted the former principal of running an organized scheme to defraud. Under Florida law, that charge can carry a maximum sentence of up to 30 years in prison, though the final punishment will be determined by the court during sentencing.
Despite the verdict, the former principal has denied wrongdoing. Her legal team has indicated that she plans to appeal the conviction.
Sentencing Expected in Coming Weeks
The former school leader, who spent nearly two decades leading St. Coleman Catholic School, is currently free on bond while awaiting sentencing. Court officials say a sentencing hearing is expected to take place in the coming weeks.
The case has drawn attention in the Pompano Beach community due to the length of time the principal served at the school and the amount of money involved in the fraud scheme.
As the case moves toward sentencing, many are waiting to see what penalty the court will ultimately impose following the jury’s verdict. For more breaking stories and updates, visit GordonRamsayClub.com.
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