MCMINNVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — A former Warren County teacher and club sponsor has been indicted for stealing more than $1,400 from a school club over several years after an investigation from the Tennessee Comptroller's Office.
According to the office, the investigation began when Warren County High School (WCHS) officials reported allegations of misappropriation to the Comptroller's Office. Investigators then determined Jamie Branin, the WCHS Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) club sponsor, misappropriated at least $1,431.54 between 2017 and 2024.
The Comptroller's Office said the majority of the stolen money came from club fundraising efforts. The club sold chocolate bars and meat sticks to support student participation in the club. Branin is accused of collecting the proceeds from the fundraisers and turning in false reports to the school bookkeeper to conceal her misappropriation.
Branin also failed to remit collections she received for students' membership dues and conference fees to the bookkeeper, the Comptroller's Office said.
She resigned from her position with Warren County High School Feb. 14, 2024, according to the Comptroller.
She was indicted by the Warren County Grand Jury Aug. 2, on one count of theft of property over $1,000, one count of forgery over $1,000, one count of tampering with government records, and one count of official misconduct.
"School officials should take more steps to properly review fundraiser reports," Comptroller Jason Mumpower said. "This includes following up on inventory shortages and receiving more detailed information when inventory is either given away or sold at a discounted price. Our investigators have met with school officials to provide recommendations on implementing stronger controls over these processes."