The St. Joseph School District has issued a statement regarding felony stealing charges against a former employee.

According to the statement, the School District learned of the allegations against 39-year-old Brian M. Smith on February 1, 2018.

According to a probable cause statement dated April 2, 2018, Smith was the treasurer for the Parkway Elementary School Parent Teacher Association. According to witness statements and documentation provided by the victim, Smith was responsible for the PTA’s bank account and finances.

From November 2016 until January 2018, Smith used the organization’s debit card to make over 50 unauthorized purchases or ATM withdrawals from the PTA bank account totaling $10,869.12. The transactions were determined to be for personal use and not on behalf of or for the PTA.

According to the School District, no school funds were found to be involved. The PTA funds at the center of the allegations were designated for use in the school for the benefit of Parkway Elementary teachers and students.

The investigation was turned over to the St. Joseph Police Department on February 2nd.

Smith is no longer employed by the St. Joseph School District.