DeKalb County, October 16, 2025
News Summary
The DeKalb County Board of Education has accepted the resignation of Superintendent Dr. Devon Horton following serious federal fraud charges. Horton is accused of wire fraud, federal program theft, and tax evasion, which has prompted the board to initiate a forensic audit of district contracts. Acting Superintendent Dr. Norman C. Sauce III has been appointed to lead the district during this transitional period, raising concerns about the future of several staff members hired under Horton’s administration.
DeKalb County
DeKalb County’s Board of Education voted 6-1 on October 15, 2025, to accept the resignation of Superintendent Dr. Devon Horton, effective November 15, 2025. This decision comes after Horton was charged in a federal indictment related to alleged involvement in a scheme to defraud the Evanston/Skokie School District 65 in Illinois. Horton had been placed on administrative leave following the indictment on October 9, 2025.
The federal indictment includes serious charges against Horton including wire fraud, honest-services fraud, federal program theft, and tax evasion. Horton reportedly collaborated with three associates—Antonio Ross, Samuel Ross, and Alfonzo Lewis—to secure contracts through false pretenses and kickbacks. The indictment claims that Horton received kickbacks totaling approximately $41,900 from Antonio Ross’ company, $30,800 from Samuel Ross’ company, and $9,000 from Alfonzo Lewis’ business.
According to the indictment’s details, the fraudulent invoices and contracts amounted to significant sums, including $139,500 for Connecting the Dots Leadership Initiative and $119,500 for Asset Protection Specialist. In response to the situation, the Board has approved a forensic audit of district contracts and Horton’s purchasing card (P-card) statements to ensure transparency and accountability amidst the allegations.
Within the district, Acting Superintendent Dr. Norman C. Sauce III was appointed on October 9, 2025, to fill the leadership void left by Horton’s departure. Horton’s tenure as Superintendent had previously seen improvements in graduation rates and attendance, which his attorney emphasized in a statement defending him against the allegations.
Future Implications for the School District
The indictment also claims that Horton misused his district P-Card for personal expenses. This raises questions about the future of several key staff members who were hired under Horton, particularly as the district moves forward with ongoing initiatives like the Student Assignment Project (SAP). In light of the unfolding situation, state lawmakers have proposed forming a subcommittee to explore legislative changes aimed at preventing similar issues in the future.
Next Steps in Legal Proceedings
Dr. Horton is scheduled for his arraignment in the Northern District of Illinois on October 23, 2025, where further proceedings regarding the charges will take place.
Summary of Key Events
- Resignation Accepted: October 15, 2025
- Resignation Effective: November 15, 2025
- Allegations: Federal indictment for fraud-related charges
- Acting Superintendent: Dr. Norman C. Sauce III appointed on October 9, 2025
- Forensic Audit Approved: To ensure transparency
- Next Legal Step: Arraignment on October 23, 2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What charges have been brought against Dr. Devon Horton?
Horton was charged in a federal indictment with wire fraud, honest-services fraud, federal program theft, and tax evasion.
When is Dr. Horton’s resignation effective?
Horton’s resignation will be effective on November 15, 2025.
What has the Board of Education decided regarding Horton’s resignation?
DeKalb County’s Board of Education voted 6-1 to accept Dr. Horton’s resignation.
Who has been appointed as Acting Superintendent?
Acting Superintendent Dr. Norman C. Sauce III was appointed on October 9, 2025.
What kind of audit has been approved by the Board?
The Board has approved a forensic audit of district contracts and Horton’s purchasing card statements to ensure transparency.
Chart: Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Resignation Vote | 6-1 decision on October 15, 2025 |
| Effective Resignation Date | November 15, 2025 |
| Charges Against Horton | Wire fraud, honest-services fraud, federal program theft, tax evasion |
| Key Associates Involved | Antonio Ross, Samuel Ross, Alfonzo Lewis |
| Kickbacks Received | Approx. $81,700 total |
| Fraudulent Contracts Involved | $139,500 and $119,500 for respective initiatives |
| Forensic Audit Status | Approved by the Board |
| Next Legal Date | Arraignment on October 23, 2025 |
