Amid preparations for a forensic audit of the Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS), allegations of document destruction have escalated tensions between the district and Tennessee legislative leaders. In a joint statement released on social media, House Speaker Cameron Sexton and Lieutenant Governor Randy McNally claimed, "Hearing [Memphis-Shelby] County Schools is destroying documents ahead of the forensic audit - this is a crime!" and indicated that the Tennessee Comptroller of the Treasury has been informed of the situation. "Those tampering with or destroying public records will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law," the GOP leaders added, according to Action News 5.
Accusations from employees within MSCS about the disposal of certain documents were confirmed by Sexton in an interview. However, the details surrounding these allegations remain vague, with no specific evidence laid bare. Superintendent Dr. Roderick Richmond from MSCS sought to address these suspicions by reaching out to Speaker Sexton, though it is unclear if he has received a response. This communication breakdown, as claimed by him, has not deterred MSCS officials from proclaiming their innocence and transparency in the process, as reported by Action News 5.
Rebutting the claims, MSCS officials have made clear their unawareness of any such alleged wrongdoing. "We are unaware of any such alleged acts by any MSCS representative or official, nor have we received any evidence substantiating these extremely serious claims and accusations," they stated. In light of their commitment to cooperation, MSCS has called on those with any related information to come forward so that a thorough investigation can be conducted. This push for transparency is explained in a statement sourced by WREG.
Adding to the controversy, State Senator Raumesh Akbari has weighed in on the issue, expressing a more cautious approach. "Right now, there’s no verified evidence that documents are being destroyed," Akbari mentioned, trusting that any potential issues will be managed appropriately through the auditing process and with the proper authorities, as told to Action News 5. The forensic audit, bolstered by a $6.6 million allocation in the state budget, is due to commence in July, yet the precise scope of the audit remains to be clarified, according to FOX13.
