BERKELEY COUNTY, S.C.–On Friday morning, Berkeley County Superintendent Rodney Thompson faced a judge in Richland County where he is accused of using public funds and property to influence the outcome of the 2012 “Yes 4 Schools” campaign.
The charge is a misdemeanor and carries a potential sentence of up to one year in prison and/or a fine of five hundred percent (500%) of the amounts at issue.
The judge gave Thompson a $10,000 personal recognizance bond.
This means he does not have to put any money up front.
After Thompson’s indictment on Wednesday, Board Chair, Dr. Kent Murray, released the following statement:
“We learned this afternoon that the District’s Superintendent, Dr. Rodney Thompson, has been indicted in connection with the 2012 school improvement referendum. For these reasons, Dr. Thompson has been placed on administrative leave, with pay. Because this remains an ongoing legal and employment matter, I am unable to comment further regarding the facts of the matter.”
Thompson’s indictment makes the second in over a year for the Berkeley County School District.
Amy Kovach, the school district’s former communications director, was indicted on the same charge in early February 2014. Seven months later she was also indicted on forgery.
If convicted, both could face up to one year in prison.
Prior Stories:
- BCSD communications director Amy Kovach wants charge dropped
- BCSD communications director Amy Kovach may have to repay $100,000 in legal fees
- Grand jury indicts BCSD communications director Amy Kovach on forgery charges
- BCSD to stop paying for indicted communications director’s legal defense
- BCSD Rodney Thompson requests to resign as superintendent
- BCSD communications director given $10,000 PR bond
- Grand Jury Indicts Berkeley County School District Superintendent Dr. Rodney Thompson
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