News Summary
Two former LSU employees, Yetiv Knight and Tonya Harvey, face felony theft charges for allegedly stealing funds from the university’s bursar’s office. An audit revealed Knight took approximately $2,500 and Harvey misappropriated $9,656. Both individuals have been terminated and are currently out on bond awaiting trial. The case raises concerns over financial security and accountability in the institution, prompting a review of LSU’s financial practices to prevent future incidents.
BR Baton Rouge – Two former employees of Louisiana State University (LSU) are facing felony theft charges after being accused of stealing thousands of dollars from the university’s bursar’s office. Yetiv Knight and Tonya Harvey were arrested in February 2025 for their alleged involvement in the embezzlement of university funds.
According to reports, Knight, a former assistant director of customer service, is alleged to have stolen approximately $2,500 in cash, while Harvey, a former accounting technician, is accused of taking $9,656. Both employees have since been terminated from their positions at LSU, as confirmed by university spokesman Todd Woodward.
The thefts were uncovered during a routine audit of the bursar’s office, which is tasked with the collection of student tuition and fees. The audit revealed discrepancies in the cash bags assigned to both Knight and Harvey, prompting further investigation into their activities.
Documents relating to the case indicate that Knight admitted to taking the stolen funds in order to pay for her son’s bail following an arrest. Following the initiation of the audit, she reportedly attempted to return the misappropriated cash, but was apprehended with funds still in her possession.
Meanwhile, Harvey is currently participating in a pre-trial diversion program tailored for first-time offenders, suggesting that she may have the opportunity to avoid a criminal record depending on the outcome of her case. Both former employees are currently out on bond while awaiting further legal proceedings. A trial date has yet to be scheduled.
Investigation Background
The investigation into the thefts began after an anonymous tip led The Illuminator to inquire about the situation. This instigated a review of the operations within the bursar’s office, which demonstrated significant discrepancies in the handling of cash intended for tuition and fee collections. The university has made it clear that it takes such allegations seriously and has terminated the employment of both individuals involved.
Consequences of Theft
The charges against Knight and Harvey highlight serious legal repercussions for individuals in positions of trust within educational institutions. Felony theft convictions can carry hefty penalties, including significant fines and potential jail time, depending on the circumstances and value of the stolen goods.
The ongoing situation has raised questions about the security and audit procedures within the bursar’s office, as well as the measures that the university may implement to prevent similar incidents in the future. Transparency in financial dealings is crucial for maintaining trust and integrity in educational environments.
Local Community Reaction
The Baton Rouge community, which includes students, faculty, and parents, has been following the developments closely. Incidents of internal theft within public institutions can lead to a loss of confidence among stakeholders, emphasizing the need for robust oversight and accountability within such systems.
Looking Ahead
As the legal proceedings against Knight and Harvey unfold, the broader implications of their actions will likely resonate beyond just their individual circumstances. LSU, as an institution, is expected to review its financial practices and implement stricter controls to protect its assets and uphold its commitment to ethical conduct.
The university remains vigilant in its efforts to ensure that trust in its financial practices is restored and that similar incidents do not occur in the future. The outcome of this case will serve as an important touchstone for assessing the integrity of the university’s financial management going forward.
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Additional Resources
- LSU Reveille: Two Former LSU Employees Charged with Stealing
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Theft
- WBRZ: Deputies Asking for Assistance in Identifying Theft Suspects
- Google Search: Theft investigation in education
- The Advocate: Baton Rouge Card Skimming Linked to Romanian Crime Syndicate
- Google Scholar: Financial crimes in educational institutions
- WBRZ: Baton Rouge Gang Member Arrested
- Google News: Financial oversight in universities
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