State Auditor Shad White on Wednesday announced a former dispatcher for the Newton County Sheriff’s Office was arrested and charged with embezzlement/fraud in public office.

Shannon Taylor is alleged to have changed timesheets after they were approved by her supervisor. White’s office presented a demand letter of $16,263.72 to Taylor at the time of her arrest.

If convicted, she faces up to 10 years in prison and $5,000 in fines. The case will be prosecuted by District Attorney Steven Kilgore, who represents Mississippi’s eighth judicial district, including Newton County.

White thanked the people involved in investigating the case and their diligence in protecting taxpayer dollars.

“Thank you to the investigators on my team and the prosecutors for putting a stop to this scheme,” he said. “As I have said, no matter the amount, my office will keep watch over your tax dollars.”

Residents who suspect fraudulent activity can make a report to the auditor’s office online at osa.ms.gov or by calling 800-321-1275.