STOCKTON, CA — In a significant development, the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office conducted searches at the Stockton Unified School District's office and a private residence on Tuesday morning. The operation, confirmed by the district attorney’s office, comes amid ongoing investigations into the school district.
While the specific reasons for the search warrant remain undisclosed, it is known that the school district has been under scrutiny by the District Attorney since at least April. This investigation follows a report by the Fiscal Crisis & Management Assistance Team (FCMAT) earlier this year, indicating potential financial misconduct within the district.
The FCMAT audit, conducted in April, raised concerns about the school district's procurement processes, especially regarding contracts for COVID-19 sanitation equipment in 2021. The audit found "sufficient evidence" suggesting that fraud, misappropriation of funds, or other illegal fiscal practices might have occurred.
In response to these findings, District Attorney Ron Freitas emphasized a zero-tolerance approach towards any fraudulent activities, particularly those exploiting school resources. He initiated a thorough investigation to uncover any wrongdoing.
The Stockton Unified School District has acknowledged the ongoing investigation and pledged full cooperation. The district reassured its commitment to focusing on student wellness and achievement, despite the current challenges.
This search operation marks a crucial step in the ongoing investigation, highlighting the seriousness of the allegations against the school district. The community awaits further details as the Sheriff’s Office and the District Attorney’s Office continue their investigations.
