A former treasurer of Wayne Local Schools has been found in the red, as the Ohio Auditor’s special audit reveals a total of $44,222.08 in financial mismanagement, including late fees and penalties that were never footed by the school's former money man. According to a press release issued by the Ohio Auditor of State’s office, Ron James, along with his bonding company, are now on the hook for the sum, which includes money owed to the Internal Revenue Service, the Ohio Department of Taxation, and the Village of Waynesville, as well as various vendors.
The thorough investigation conducted by the Auditor of State’s Special Investigations Unit (SIU) began to intensify after an anonymous tip came in back in February 2022. Their eeny-miny-moe landed on an unfortunate tale of fiscal neglect as their audit spanned a period from January 1, 2019, through January 25, 2024. The SIU uncovered $41,692.21 in penalties and interest that came about due to James’s negligence in making prompt payments. An extra bite was taken with $2,529.87 in interest and late fees for more than 60 invoices that failed to be addressed in time.
As the story unfolds, we learn that the woes didn't end with just financial restitution. The audit report threw light on additional allegations that prompted indictments against Ron James and his daughter. Despite the drama and courtroom back-and-forths, "Both were acquitted on all charges following a bench trial in Warren County Common Pleas Court," the Ohio Auditor of State Keith Faber's release details.
The historical performance of the SIU paints a picture of diligence, boasting 147 convictions since 2019, leading to over $16 million clawed back in restitution. It serves to gently remind the public about the watchful eyes that are always to seem open to catch a whiff of financial misdemeanors. For those feeling the urge to whistle-blow, SIU stands ready, with tips, able to be submitted anonymously online or via their fraud hotline at 866-FRAUD-OH (866-372-8364).
The Auditor of State’s Office, standing as one of Ohio’s five independently elected statewide offices, not only places scrutiny on this specific case but continues to audit more than 5,900 state and local government agencies. This office, under Auditor Keith Faber, stretches its reach to offer financial services, combat fraud, and champion government transparency across the state.
