Former School Treasurer Indicted on Felony Charges

Ronald L. James, the former treasurer of Wayne Local Schools, and his daughter Jenae M. James have been indicted on multiple felony charges related to misconduct during his tenure. Ronald, 69, faces charges of tampering with records, theft in office, and having an unlawful interest in a public contract, while Jenae, 43, is charged with theft. The allegations suggest that from January 2019 to October 2022, Ronald used his position to falsify documents to direct payments totaling $3,150 to Jenae and to recommend an unbid landscaping contract worth over $27,000. Ronald resigned from his position in late 2022 amid an ongoing audit and investigation. The Wayne Local School District is currently managing the fallout from these indictments, which reflect significant breaches of public trust.