Former Jackson County employee pleads guilty to embezzlement

State Auditor Shad White has announced Jonathan Smith, a former employee of Jackson County, has been convicted of two counts of embezzlement. The case was prosecuted by District Attorney Angel McIlrath’s office in the courtroom of Judge Kathy King Jackson.

Smith was arrested for embezzlement last year. He stole road maintenance equipment and two catalytic converters from Jackson County taxpayers. He was also issued a $3,549.79 demand letter. A majority of the equipment has already been recovered and returned to Jackson County.

“Thank you to the investigators and prosecutors in this case. We will continue to protect taxpayers against misuse of their property, big and small,” said White.

Jonathan Smith is now convicted of a felony offense and will not be able to handle public money again. Judge Jackson’s sentencing order has been filed with the Jackson County Circuit Clerk’s office for public inspection.

Suspected fraud can be reported to the Auditor’s office online at any time by clicking the red button at www.osa.ms.gov or calling 1-(800)-321-1275 during normal business hours.