Well,was it "criminal" or not? UISD contradicts itself on mis-spent money

Students shouldn't have to sell candy in the first place

The Laredo Morning Times carried a story today about a former UISD employee who allegedly used school money raised by candy bar sales for personal use. The story reports that the former employee admitted to such use and even told his principal via e-mail "yes mam write it down in your notes, personal use". What's somewhat confusing is whether UISD considers this behavior as criminal or not. On the one hand, no criminal charges were filed and on the other hand, the district reported the activity to the State Board Of Education because of the "criminal nature of the offense".  OK so which is it?

Furthermore, this happened in the Summer of 2010. Why is this just coming to the attention of the local news media? Is it possible that the district wants to deflect attention away from the Superintendent's recent $25,000 salary increase and towards this particular subject?

From Today's Laredo Morning Times

“No criminal charges were filed because the employee made arrangements for complete restitution,” UISD attorney Juan Cruz said.

“Cases are reviewed on a case-by-case basis, and depending on the circumstances of each case, the district makes a decision on whether to prosecute or file criminal charges with authorities.

“In this case, the employee made arrangements to reimburse for money owed, and the position was made not follow through with criminal charges.”

State report

UISD told Morales that because of the seriousness and criminal nature of the offense, the district had to report the incident to the State Board for Educator Certification, or SBEC.

The state requires a superintendent to notify SBEC when an employee resigns and reasonable evidence suggests an employee illegally appropriated property of the district or committed a criminal offense.

According to the SBEC, Morales’ teaching certificate has been suspended for two years, from July 2011 to July 2013.