Former Jefferson County Band Booster Club Treasurer Charged With Theft

A special investigation by the Tennessee Comptroller’s Office has found that Kathleen Lowery, the former treasurer of the Jefferson County High School Band Booster Club, stole at least $12,827 from November 2012 through February 2014.

Investigators found that Ms. Lowery paid her personal credit cards with band booster club funds ($9,577.12), withdrew booster club money for her own benefit ($2,750.00), and kept cash from a cook-out fundraiser for herself ($500).

Ms. Lowery admitted to investigators that she used booster club funds for her own benefit without the knowledge or authorization of the board. After admitting to taking the money, Ms. Lowery deposited $10,830 into the band booster club bank account.

In August 2015, the Jefferson County Grand Jury indicted Kathleen Lowery on one count of theft over $10,000.

“It’s important for all school support organizations to implement some basic financial safeguards to prevent the theft of money,” said Comptroller Justin P. Wilson. “Checks and balances, such as requiring two signatures on checks, and separating money handling responsibilities, can help detect fraud.”

To view the special investigation online, go to: http://www.comptroller.tn.gov/ia/.

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: www.comptroller.tn.gov/hotline.