State Auditor Shad White announced today that Special Agents from his office have arrested Lisa Goodson, the former Water Department Clerk for the Town of Sardis, on charges of embezzlement. Goodson is accused of taking cash from water payments and deleting the transactions from the system to conceal the theft.
Auditor White emphasized the importance of accountability in public service, stating, “My office will continue to crack down on cases big and small to ensure taxpayer money is spent properly.” White also acknowledged the collaboration with state prosecutors, who decide whether to indict individuals based on the Auditor’s investigations.
If convicted, Goodson faces up to 5 years in prison and $5,000 in fines. Her employment as the Water Department Clerk was covered by a $50,000 surety bond, which acts as insurance to protect taxpayers from financial misconduct.
The Auditor’s Office encourages anyone with information about suspected fraud to report it by calling 1-(800)-321-1275 or visiting their website.
Goodson is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
