Chapter 12 - The Maintenance Money
Forensic review found $186,000 in questionable maintenance reimbursements. After legitimate management costs were separated, approximately $118,000 remained unsupported or improperly allocated. Not millions. Still serious. The school’s scholarship fund had paid $42,000 of those expenses through internal allocations labeled “classroom safety improvements.” Some improvements existed. Others were landlord responsibilities under the lease.
Ms. Kendrick had approved reimbursements while acting informally as facilities liaison. Conflict. Concealment. Financial self-interest. The property case strengthened. But prosecutors remained cautious. Civil claims were clearer than criminal fraud on every invoice. Declan learned to appreciate uncertainty. Not every suspicious number had to become a crime for the central betrayal to remain real.
