COLUMBIA COUNTY, Fla. — Tomeka Nicole Henry, the owner of Lake City’s Touch By An Angel Learning Academy, has been apprehended by authorities, the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office confirms.

Search Warrants Executed Following Tip

Law enforcement officials, including officers from the Suwannee County Sheriff’s Office and the State Attorney’s Office, conducted searches at Touch By An Angel Learning Academy and a residence on NW Canton Lane in Lake City. These actions stem from an investigation initiated after receiving a tip in December 2023, leading to months of scrutiny.

Alleged Misappropriation of State Funds

Authorities suspect Henry of embezzling $1.3 million in state funding allocated to the school. The funds in question were intended for Lake City’s Touch By An Angel Learning Academy, a private educational institution.

The misused state funds were part of two government programs: the Early Learning Coalition and the Step Up for Students initiative, underscoring the significant impact of the alleged theft on local education resources.

Charges and Bail Set

Tomeka Nicole Henry faces charges of fraud and grand theft in connection with the purported misappropriation of state funds. Her bail has been established at $1 million, with $500,000 allocated per charge.

Ongoing Investigation and Community Response

Law enforcement officials are actively investigating the possibility of additional individuals being involved in the criminal activity or any potential victims whose personal information might have been exploited.

Columbia County Sheriff Mark Hunter emphasized the crucial role of community collaboration in uncovering criminal behavior, stating, A citizen tip is what started this investigation. This is an example of our community trusting and working with law enforcement to root out criminal activity.

How to Assist in the Investigation

Individuals with pertinent information are urged to contact detectives at (386) 752-7015. Alternatively, anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers of Columbia County by dialing (386) 754-7099.

Upholding Accountability in Education

The arrest of Tomeka Nicole Henry underscores the importance of upholding accountability in educational institutions. As the investigation unfolds, authorities are committed to ensuring that justice is served and that the integrity of state funds allocated for education is maintained.

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