After several months of investigation, authorities have arrested 35-year-old Melissa Lee Lantz, the former Woodward-Granger School District Business Manager and School Board Secretary, for first degree theft, a class C felony.

According to a press release from the Iowa Department of Public Safety, the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI), along with the State Auditor’s Office, began an investigation at the end of January into a string of suspicious financial transactions in the District. The investigation revealed that Lantz was the sole person responsible for $221,851.27 in improper payroll disbursements. A warrant was issued for her arrest last Wednesday, and Tuesday morning she was arrested and booked into to Dallas County Jail. She has since been released after posting $10,000 bond.

First degree theft carries a maximum 10-year prison sentence and up to $10,000 fine. Raccoon Valley Radio will bring you more information as it becomes official.