She resigned March 19 from the position with the schools, where she had worked since November 1998. She had been food service director since December 2007. District Superintendent Rick Hanes said earlier this year that $41,267 was stolen between Jan. 1, 2010, and April 16.
Defense lawyer Jack Hemm told Judge Christopher Gee that the behavior “certainly was not characteristic of Terri.” He said Meyer had no prior record and family illnesses and injury put financial pressure on her. “Even good people sometimes have these moments,” Hemm said.
Meyer, who has paid back the money, said she would make no excuses and would obtain multiple jobs if needed to support the family.“‘In time, I hope my family and friends have respect for me again,” she said.
Janna Parker, assistant county prosecutor, asked for prison time, saying Meyer held a position of trust and the thefts occurred repeatedly over years.
“The idea of getting two to three jobs would have been the solution to this years ago,” Parker said.
Jeremie Hittle, Piqua schools treasurer, also asked for the maximum prison time allowed of 18 months, saying Meyer was in charge of more than $1 million of public funds a year. “Mrs. Meyer intentionally falsified records to cover up her wrongdoing,” Hittle said.
Gee said although Meyer pleaded to one charge, multiple offenses occurred over the years of the theft. During that time, he said, she “was using public funds as a tax free income stream.”
Meyer also was ordered to pay court related costs.
Hanes said a “mishandling” of vending machine funds was found through food service staff following checks and balances protocol.
Defense lawyer Jack Hemm said there was no plea bargain involved in the case.
The fourth-degree felony charge carried a maximum penalty of 18 months in prison and a $5,000 fine.
About the Author