School Officials Exploit Resources for Personal Gain
The Patterson Joint Unified School District in California has been embroiled in a sophisticated scheme orchestrated by senior officials Jeffrey Menge and Eric Drabert. The U.S. Department of Justice has revealed that Menge, the Assistant Superintendent, and Drabert, the IT Director, used district resources for their own benefit, including running an illegal cryptocurrency mining operation.
Guilt Pleas and Charges
Menge and Drabert have recently pleaded guilty to charges of theft concerning programs receiving federal funds. They admitted to engaging in fraudulent activities from 2018 to 2022, siphoning off over $1.2 million from the school district. Their scheme involved creating a fictitious executive and bypassing transaction restrictions to engage in fraudulent billing.
Illicit Crypto Mining Operation
In addition to financial misconduct, Menge and Drabert utilized district-owned resources to establish a crypto mining farm within the school district’s facilities. The operation, which utilized high-end graphics cards, significantly increased electricity consumption, raising concerns for U.S. energy regulators who are cracking down on energy-intensive crypto mining activities.
Exploitation of District Vehicles
Menge also took advantage of district vehicles for personal gain. He sold a Chevy truck at a profit and used a Ford Transit van for personal use. The embezzled funds from the mining operation and other fraudulent activities were spent on home renovations, luxury cars, and personal expenses.
Hot Take: Senior School Officials Exploit School Resources for Criminal Gain
Senior officials at the Patterson Joint Unified School District, Jeffrey Menge and Eric Drabert, have been caught using district resources for their own illegal activities. This includes running an unauthorized cryptocurrency mining operation and engaging in fraudulent billing. Their actions not only defrauded the school district of over $1.2 million, but also posed environmental concerns due to increased electricity consumption. It’s a stark reminder that even trusted individuals in positions of authority can engage in criminal behavior for personal gain.
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