Former Kingsport PTO Officer Indicted for Theft
An investigation by the Tennessee Comptroller’s Office, working in conjunction with the Kingsport Police Department, has resulted in the indictment of Jessica Slaughter, a former officer with the Abraham Lincoln Elementary School Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) and the John Sevier Middle School PTO in Kingsport.
Investigators determined that Slaughter misappropriated at least $9,190.57 from the two school support organizations in 2023. During that period, Slaughter served in leadership roles with both PTOs, including as co-president of the Abraham Lincoln Elementary School PTO and treasurer of the John Sevier Middle School PTO.
Investigators found that Slaughter transferred at least $3,790.57 from the Abraham Lincoln Elementary School PTO bank account and at least $5,400 from the John Sevier Middle School PTO bank account to her spouse’s bank account using Square, a digital payment service. These transfers did not benefit either PTO and often occurred when her spouse’s bank account had a low or negative balance. Slaughter later deposited $4,000 and $5,101.10 into the Abraham Lincoln Elementary PTO and John Sevier Middle PTO accounts, respectively.
The investigation also identified at least $7,677 in questionable cash withdrawals made by former PTO officers. Due to a lack of supporting documentation, investigators could not determine the purpose of the withdrawals or whether they benefited the organizations. Additionally, investigators identified $208.14 in personal purchases made with a John Sevier Middle School PTO debit card, including food, toys, toddler shoes, bedding, medicine, and other household items. Investigators could not determine who made those purchases.
Based upon this investigation, in June 2026, the Sullivan County Grand Jury indicted Jessica Slaughter on two counts of theft over $2,500.
“School support organizations should adhere to the Model Financial Policy that is published by the Comptroller’s Office,” said Comptroller Mumpower. “This document makes clear the need to maintain accurate records, establish written internal controls, separate key financial responsibilities, and require two signatures on checks.”
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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