PERSONAL USE: Officials In Trouble For Car Use

Officials say a central Iowa school secretary and superintendent violated Iowa law.

The state ombudsman’s office says Earlham superintendent Michael Wright allowed secretary Jodi Stroud to drive a school vehicle for personal use.

State law prohibits government employees from using public property for private purposes.

Stroud reportedly drove the vehicle over 1,000 in 27 days. That included use during weekends and running personal errands.

Superintendent Wright only asked for mileage reimbursement after Stroud totaled the car in an accident.

The school board instructed Superintendent Wright to discipline Stroud as he saw fit.

But the state ombudsman disagreed with that decision, saying the board should have disciplined both employees.

The case is being referring to the Madison County Attorney.