Former California schools official suspected of embezzlement

RIVERSIDE, Calif. (AP) — The former president of the Riverside County School Boards Association is suspected of stealing about $40,000 from the association and a high school booster club and using the money for personal expenses.

The county District Attorney’s Office said Wednesday that William Clarence Newberry faces charges including grand theft, embezzlement and misappropriation of public funds.

The 59-year-old Newberry could not immediately be reached for comment.

Prosecutors say the investigation began after the association’s new treasurer reported suspicious activity in an account that holds dues paid by the 23 county school districts.

Investigators say Newberry used the money for personal purchases and to pay medical bills starting in 2013.

Newberry is a former Corona-Norco Unified School District board member.