By: Richard L. Smith
Evesham Township School District's Helen L. Beeler Elementary School became the center of a criminal investigation after over $700 in currency was reported missing from the school's main office in late February.
According to Burlington County authorities, the stolen funds, belonging to the Evesham Township School District, prompted immediate action, with the district quickly notifying the Evesham Police Department.
Following a thorough investigation by the Evesham Police Department’s Investigative Bureau, Principal Colleen Schroeder was identified as the suspect.
On March 1, 2024, Schroeder, 46, from Hainesport, was arrested and charged with one count of theft, facing a third-degree crime charge.
She was taken into custody without incident and subsequently released on a summons, awaiting her first appearance hearing at Burlington County Superior Court.
In response to the incident, Evesham Township School District Superintendent Justin Smith issued a statement affirming the district's commitment to cooperation with law enforcement and emphasizing the seriousness with which it regards the theft accusation.
He noted that Schroeder was already on an unrelated leave from her position and would remain on leave pending the outcome of her case.
Smith also highlighted the presumption of innocence until proven guilty, acknowledging the legal process ahead for Schroeder.
As the community tried to understand the unsettling news of a trusted school official's involvement in such an offense, the Evesham Police Department has stated that no additional information will be disclosed at this time.
The case has sparked discussions on the integrity of those in positions of authority within educational institutions in Burlington County and the measures in place to safeguard public resources.
