Woman arrested in theft of parent-organization funds

By The Associated Press

Police in Bentonville have arrested the former treasurer of Sugar Creek Elementary School's Parent Teacher Organization in the theft of $23,000.

Heather Diane Jennings, 30, is accused of writing checks to her husband and to retail outlets, including Radio Shack and the Discovery Store. The organization's account had been drawn down to $117, officials said. Missing cash deposits included money from the organization's Santa Store and Cookie Dough fundraisers.

Jennings turned herself in Monday.

In a phone call recorded by police, Jennings told two board members she used organization money for living expenses after her husband lost his job.

Jennings was in the Benton County Jail in lieu of a $10,000 bond. She is to be arraigned on Oct. 8.