Former Natchez accounts clerk arrested for alleged embezzlement
Photo: Rebekah Turner (Courtesy photo)
JACKSON, Miss. – State Auditor Shad White announced Monday that Special Agents from his office have arrested a former City of Natchez employee, Rebekah Turner, on charges of allegedly embezzling public funds. Turner, who previously served as an Accounts Receivable Clerk, is accused of taking cash from departmental deposits for her personal use.
The arrest is part of a continuing effort by the Auditor’s Office to crack down on public corruption across Mississippi.
Details of the Allegations
According to the Auditor’s office, Turner allegedly diverted money from deposits made to her office by other City of Natchez departments. The investigation suggests she converted the cash directly for her own personal benefit.
“The dedicated team at the Office of the State Auditor will continue to work with prosecutors so we can continue delivering record results for taxpayers,” said State Auditor Shad White. “This is how we’ve recovered more money in the last seven years than any other seven-year period.”
Potential Penalties and Legal Status
Turner faces serious penalties if convicted, including up to $5,000 in fines and 20 years in state prison.
The Mississippi Office of the State Auditor stressed that, as with all persons arrested, Turner is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Reporting Fraud
The Auditor’s office encourages the public to report suspected fraud. Tips can be submitted online at www.osa.ms.gov or by calling the office during normal business hours at 1-800-321-1275.
