Two Charged in Connection to Overton County’s Afterschool Program
An investigation by the Tennessee Comptroller’s Office has resulted in the indictments of two women after they received at least $22,620 in improper compensation for time they did not work. Both women formerly worked for the Overton County School System’s afterschool program.
The investigation began after the Overton County Director of Schools identified and reported these issues to the Comptroller’s Office.
The investigation’s findings include:
- Samantha Stephens, who served as program coordinator at AH Roberts Elementary School, improperly received at least $9,010 in compensation by reporting 336.5 hours of time not worked.
- Deborah Roddy, who also served as a program coordinator at AH Roberts, improperly received at least $13,610 in compensation by reporting 450.5 hours of time not worked.
- A family member of Roddy, who worked as a program employee at Hilham Elementary School, and also served in the summer school program, improperly received at least $1,800 in compensation by reporting 90 hours of time not worked.
Investigators determined that Samantha Stephens and Deborah Roddy conspired to individually report five days per week working in the afterschool program, when they were actually working two or three days per week by alternating days with one another.
The investigation also found the former afterschool director inaccurately reported attendance data. The number of students reported to be attending the program did not affect the program’s revenue or the former director’s compensation.
Based upon this investigation, in January 2025, the Overton County Grand Jury indicted Samantha Stephens and Deborah Roddy on theft charges. These charges can be viewed in the investigative report.
“Those responsible for approving and signing timesheets should take extra steps to ensure they are accurate,” said Comptroller Jason Mumpower. “Adequate oversight is important to prevent fraud, waste, and abuse.”
To view the investigative report, go to tncot.cc/doireports. To view a map depicting Comptroller investigations, go to tncot.cc/mappinginvestigations
If you suspect fraud, waste, or abuse of public money in Tennessee, call the Comptroller’s toll-free hotline at 800.232.5454, or file a report online at: tncot.cc/fraud. Follow us on X/Twitter @TNCOT and Instagram @tncot
Media contact: John Dunn, Director of Communications, 615.401.7755 or john.dunn@cot.tn.gov
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