School Board Member Accused of Misappropriating $175,000

School Board Member Accused of Misappropriating 175000

Fairfax County School Board board member Kyle McDaniel has found himself at the center of embezzlement allegations amounting to $175,000.

Key Takeaways

  • Kyle McDaniel is accused of embezzling $175,000 from Blue Label Aviation.
  • McDaniel allegedly used company resources for personal and campaign expenses.
  • He was previously confronted about $120,000 in improper charges and reportedly paid back some before being caught embezzling more money.
  • A lawsuit filed seeks significant damages and the return of company assets.

Embezzlement Allegations

The Fairfax County School Board member, Kyle McDaniel, is embroiled in a lawsuit filed by Blue Label Aviation. The suit accuses McDaniel of embezzling $175,000 while serving as secretary, treasurer, and CEO of Commonwealth Aviation Services LLC, a subsidiary of Blue Label Aviation. Allegedly, McDaniel used a company credit card for personal luxuries and campaign expenses.

Blue Label Aviation claims McDaniel misused his access to company credit cards and bank accounts due to his officer position. The issue traces back to June when CEO Timothy Fischer confronted McDaniel about $120,000 in improper charges. Though McDaniel repaid $50,000, the embezzlement reportedly continued, prompting another confrontation in January.

Failed Resignation and Legal Proceedings

In response to the financial discrepancies, McDaniel was offered a resignation deal contingent on relinquishing company shares and credit cards. However, he allegedly continued unauthorized charges after saying he wanted to consult a lawyer, which ultimately led to his termination. Subsequently, a lawsuit was filed in Loudon County, seeking both compensation—$175,000 in damages and $350,000 in punitive damages—and the return of corporate credit cards alongside financial account removals.

Fairfax County Public Schools acknowledged the lawsuit but withheld further comment out of respect for the legal proceedings. Despite the allegations, McDaniel intends to resolve the issue in court, noting his continued focus on public education. The lawsuit seeks comprehensive legal and financial resolutions from the court system.

Implications for Public Service

McDaniel’s term on the Fairfax County School Board is set to end in 2027. The Fairfax County Public Schools’ decision to refrain from commenting further highlights their commitment to letting the legal process unfold without public interference.

The lawsuit underscores the serious nature of financial misconduct allegations within public roles, particularly when involving entrusted financial responsibilities. As the case progresses, the community watches to see the outcomes and impacts on McDaniel’s ongoing public service commitment.