School superintendents admit to embezzlement conspiracy

Two school superintendents pleaded guilty Wednesday to conspiracy to commit embezzlement in federal court in Aberdeen, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

Earl Joe Nelson and Monekea Smith-Taylor appeared before District Judge Sharion Aycock and entered their pleas. They join Mario Willis, who pleaded guilty to the same charge in October 2025, the U.S. Attorney’s Office said.

Prosecutors allege the individuals used their positions to divert funds, though specific details of the scheme were not provided. The guilty pleas mark a significant step in an ongoing investigation into financial misconduct within the school district.

State Auditor Shad White commended the U.S. Attorney’s Office for its work on the case. “Thank you to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for helping us bring this case to a close,” White said. “My office will continue to work with prosecutors to deliver record results for taxpayers.”

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