Schools
Parent Steals From School Fundraiser, Uses Money To Gamble: Report
A Baltimore County parent stole thousands from a school fundraiser, a report said. He's accused of using the money to gamble on sports.
ESSEX, MD — James Michael Harris is accused of stealing $29,000 from the Parent Teacher Student Association for Stemmers Run Middle School while serving as the Essex nonprofit's treasurer, The Baltimore Banner reported.
The Banner said Harris is accused of spending the money, much of which came from a chocolate bar fundraiser, on himself and sports betting websites like DraftKings and FanDuel.
Court records show that Harris, 46, pleaded guilty last Thursday to theft worth $1,500 to $25,000. That's a felony.
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The record alleges that the theft happened between April 1, 2022 and March 1, 2023.
An arrest warrant was issued for Harris on July 27, 2023 and it was served on Aug. 29, 2023, the record says.
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The record says Harris was released on $30,000 bond that day.
The Banner said Harris' plea deal delays his sentencing for six months while he pays restitution. He could spend up to 10 years in prison, The Banner reported.
To learn about community reactions and Harris' repayment efforts, read The Banner's full story.
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