HERNANDO — A former Southaven High School Band Boosters treasurer has pleaded guilty to felony charges after stealing more than $39,000 from the organization, DeSoto County District Attorney Matthew Barton announced.
Barton said Krystina Thompson admitted to taking $39,161.94 from the Southaven High School Band Boosters, money intended to support students and school activities.
The theft was discovered after proceeds from band fundraisers, including **chocolate bar sales**, were not paid to the vendor, Barton said. That discrepancy prompted a review that ultimately showed the funds had been diverted for Thompson’s personal use.
Thompson’s sentencing is scheduled for March 16, according to the district attorney’s office.
Barton issued a warning about crimes involving children and schools.
“Let me be very clear: whether it’s sex crimes or financial crimes against our schools and children, we are coming after you,” Barton said.
Barton also credited a joint effort by Superintendent Cory Uselton, the Southaven Police Department, Southaven High School and school resource officers for helping bring the case forward.
“This case is proof that when schools, law enforcement, and prosecutors work together, accountability follows,” Barton said. “No one will be getting a free pass when it comes to crimes against our kids.”
Thompson will become a convicted felon as a result of her guilty plea, the district attorney’s office said.
