HARRISON COUNTY, Texas — A former financial director for Karnack Independent School District has been arrested after investigators uncovered more than $128,000 in alleged unauthorized spending of district funds.
On February 3, 2026, the Harrison County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division was contacted by the district’s superintendent regarding suspected financial irregularities. Investigators immediately launched an inquiry that included issuing subpoenas and reviewing financial and credit card records.
Authorities say the investigation revealed evidence that Courtney Johnson, while serving as Financial Director for Karnack ISD, unlawfully appropriated public funds for personal use through unauthorized credit card transactions. The review identified more than $128,000 in purchases allegedly made with school district funds.
As a result, three felony arrest warrants were obtained on February 12 and 13, 2026. Johnson is charged with Theft by a Public Servant greater than $30,000 but less than $150,000, a second-degree felony; Misapplication of Fiduciary Property greater than $30,000 but less than $150,000, a third-degree felony; and Credit Card Abuse, a state jail felony.
On February 12, deputies with the Harrison County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Division located Johnson and took her into custody without incident. She was transported to the Harrison County Jail and booked on the charges.
Sheriff B.J. Fletcher said, “Public servants are entrusted with taxpayer funds, and any misuse of that trust is a serious offense. I commend our Criminal Investigations Division for their thorough investigation and our Patrol Division for their swift action in locating and apprehending the suspect. We remain committed to protecting the public and ensuring accountability for those who violate that trust.”
The investigation remains ongoing, and additional charges may be filed.
