A former band director at Airline High School has been arrested after an internal audit uncovered missing funds from the school’s band program.
James Willett, 53, of Plain Dealing, was arrested April 1 by the Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office on a charge of malfeasance in office. Authorities say the arrest stems from findings by the Bossier Parish School Board and a subsequent audit by the Louisiana Legislative Auditor.
According to the audit report, Willett allegedly failed to deposit all money collected through band-related fees, trips and fundraising activities into the school’s Band Student Activity fund. Investigators identified approximately $47,572 in missing funds and noted that additional money from prior years may also be unaccounted for.
Auditors further found that Willett allegedly received excessive travel reimbursements during his tenure.
The school board reported the findings to the Sheriff’s Office in September. Willett later resigned from his position, according to the audit. He was replaced in January by Joel Burris, formerly assistant director of bands and director of percussion at Haughton High School.
In a statement, Bossier Parish Schools spokesperson Sonja Bailes said the discrepancies were first identified by the district’s internal auditors.
“As stated in the report, it was discovered by Bossier Parish School Board’s internal auditors that funds were missing from the Airline High School band program,” Bailes said. “It was the internal audit that resulted in the subsequent resignation and arrest of the band director. The district agrees with the finding and has taken corrective action to maintain proper internal controls over school activity funds.”
Willett was booked into Bossier Maximum Security Facility and later released on a $5,000 bond the same day. He is scheduled to appear in court on June 9.
The audit notes that the investigation into the missing funds remains ongoing.