JACKSON- In February 2009, Kenneth Lanier pled guilty to embezzlement and to an unrelated burglary charge following an investigation by the State Auditor’s Office.

He was sentenced to serve three years as a habitual criminal and was ordered to pay restitution of the $15,241.67, total principal amount embezzled.

In August 2008, State Auditor Stacey Pickering announced the arrest of Kenneth Lanier of Meridian following an indictment for embezzlement. Lanier facilitated a conspiracy to embezzle funds from Lauderdale County through the unauthorized obtainment and use of county Fuelman cards. Total loss was $21,272.86 representing $15,241.67 in embezzled funds; $609.67 in interest; and $5,421.52 in investigative expenses.  Lanier was employed by the Lauderdale County Road Department from July 20, 2006 through October 25, 2006.

The Lauderdale County Sheriff’s Office assisted the State Auditor’s Office in working this case. “This was a great joint effort between the State Auditor’s Office and Lauderdale County,” said State Auditor Stacey Pickering. “I am pleased this case has come to a conclusion and that the Court has seen fit to sentence Lanier to serve three years for his actions.”

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