By: Richard L. Smith
An Essex County woman has been charged in connection with the alleged theft of more than $17,000 from a high school fundraising account in East Orange, authorities announced.
Theodore N. Stephens II said Khaliah Johnson, 44, of Livingston, has been charged with third-degree theft related to the alleged misappropriation of $17,360 from a fundraising account at Cicely Tyson High School of Performing Arts.
According to prosecutors, Johnson was serving as the school’s treasurer and head secretary at the time of the alleged thefts, which investigators say occurred between July 5, 2024, and June 16, 2025. Authorities allege that Johnson wrote checks from the fundraising account and used the money for personal expenses.
She has since resigned from her position.
Deputy Chief Assistant Prosecutor Portia N. Downing said the case underscores the importance of safeguarding school resources.
Investigators say the funds were intended to support students and school-related programs, and the alleged conduct represents a repeated violation of that trust.
Johnson is scheduled to make her first court appearance on January 26, 2026.
Anyone with information related to criminal activity is urged to contact the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office Tips Line at 1-877-TIPS-4EC.