JACKSON- State Auditor Stacey Pickering announced that Odessa Johnson, former city clerk for Sardis, has been sentenced to serve 2 and a half years in the custody of the Department of Corrections followed by 5 years of post- release supervision.

In addition, Johnson was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $30,720.03. The restitution amount includes principal and interest. Johnson was employed with the City of Sardis from September 2001 through June 4, 2009.

“I am pleased with the sentence handed down to Odessa Johnson by the Circuit Court,” said State Auditor Stacey Pickering. “This case should serve as a reminder to public employees that my office will investigate and assist in the prosecution of any individual who betrays the public trust.”

Special agents with the State Auditor’s Office determined the embezzlement occurred by taking funds from water collections, court collections, property tax collections, payments for the marina lease, payments for dispatch services and by using the City of Sardis’ credit card for personal use. On February 4, 2010, Johnson was indicted and arrested for embezzlement.

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