DeKalb County, Georgia, October 9, 2025
News Summary
Devon Horton, the DeKalb County School Superintendent, faces federal fraud charges linked to his previous role in Illinois. Accusations include wire fraud, embezzlement, and kickback schemes involving nearly $280,000 in contracts. Following the indictment, the DeKalb School Board placed Horton on paid administrative leave and appointed an acting superintendent. The allegations raise serious concerns about governance and ethical practices in public education. The implications of this legal situation could significantly impact Horton’s career and the operations of the school district.
DeKalb County, Georgia – DeKalb County School Superintendent Devon Horton has been indicted on federal fraud charges linked to his previous position as superintendent of the Evanston-Skokie School District 65 in Illinois. The indictment was initiated by the United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois and includes serious allegations such as wire fraud, embezzlement, tax fraud, and inappropriate use of the school district’s credit card.
According to the indictment, Horton is accused of engaging in a kickback scheme with contracts worth approximately $280,000 awarded to companies owned by three associates: Antonio Ross, Alfonzo Lewis, and Samuel Ross. Horton allegedly received $85,000 in kickbacks in exchange for directing those contracts between the years 2020 and 2023.
In response to the indictment, the DeKalb School Board convened an emergency meeting on October 9, 2025, during which they immediately placed Horton on paid administrative leave. As a precautionary measure, Chief of Student Services Norman Sauce has been appointed to serve as acting superintendent until further notice.
Horton’s legal representation has asserted that he has operated with integrity during his tenure in DeKalb County, claiming that the accusations pertain to actions from years prior and are not reflective of his conduct in the current role. The indictment specifies that deceptive claims were made to hide Horton’s financial interests regarding the contracts granted to his friends’ businesses.
Additionally, it is noted that Horton had sought to hire Antonio Ross for a position within the DeKalb County Schools; however, Ross declined amid the scrutiny surrounding Horton’s ongoing legal issues.
Since taking the role of DeKalb County Superintendent in 2023, having previously served in Evanston-Skokie from 2020 to 2023, the allegations against Horton have raised significant concerns. The DeKalb County Board of Education has expressed its commitment to ensuring the district’s operations and the welfare of its students remain unaffected despite the situation.
The repercussions of the indictment could affect Horton’s career significantly; Georgia law grants the governor the authority to appoint a review panel to evaluate whether a public official should be suspended following a felony indictment. Additionally, discussions surrounding Horton’s recently extended contract and salary raise from July could become pertinent as the situation unfolds.
Officials from District 65 have confirmed their awareness of the federal investigation, stating they had cooperated with authorities while maintaining confidentiality until the formal indictment was made public.
Background Context
The legal turmoil surrounding Devon Horton represents a critical moment for the DeKalb County School District and its leadership. As districts nationwide face increasing scrutiny concerning fiscal responsibilities and ethical governance, the implications of such an indictment reflect broader concerns over transparency and accountability in public school systems. The integrity of school leadership is crucial for instilling confidence in parents, students, and the community at large.
FAQ Section
What charges has Devon Horton been indicted on?
Charges against Horton include wire fraud, embezzlement, tax fraud, and improper use of the district’s credit card.
What actions were taken by the DeKalb School Board following the indictment?
The DeKalb School Board held an emergency meeting on October 9, 2025, and placed Horton on paid administrative leave immediately.
Who will act as superintendent during Horton’s leave?
Chief of Student Services Norman Sauce has been appointed as acting superintendent during this period.
What is the potential consequence of Horton’s indictment?
The indictment may lead to Horton’s removal from his position, as Georgia law allows the governor to appoint a review panel to determine whether a public official should be suspended following a felony indictment.
Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Superintendent Indicted | Devon Horton indicted on federal fraud charges. |
| Charges | Wire fraud, embezzlement, tax fraud, improper use of district credit card. |
| Kickback Scheme | Horton allegedly received $85,000 in kickbacks on $280,000 in contracts. |
| Emergency Board Meeting | DeKalb School Board placed Horton on paid administrative leave. |
| Acting Superintendent | Norman Sauce appointed as acting superintendent. |
| Potential Suspension | Governor may appoint review panel due to felony indictment. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Decaturish: DeKalb Superintendent Indicted
- Atlanta News First: DeKalb County Superintendent Facing Federal Charges
- 11 Alive: DeKalb County Superintendent Federal Charges
- Fox 5 Atlanta: Dr. Devon Horton Indicted
- AJC: DeKalb Superintendent Indicted on Criminal Charges
- Wikipedia: DeKalb County, Georgia
- Google Search: Devon Horton Indicted
- Google Scholar: DeKalb Superintendent Charges
- Encyclopedia Britannica: DeKalb County School District
- Google News: DeKalb Superintendent Devon Horton
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