Former Maryland PTA President Faces Charges for Embezzling Nearly $1 Million and Gambling It Away
Maryland Former PTA Leader Accused of Embezzlement and Gambling
LaTonja Carrera, the former president of the Maryland Parent Teacher Association (PTA), is facing criminal charges after allegedly misappropriating close to one million dollars in public funds. According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Maryland, these funds were reportedly spent on extravagant vacations, gambling excursions, and unusual spiritual practices.
Details of the Financial Misconduct
Investigations reveal that Carrera siphoned off more than $900,000 from sources including COVID-19 relief funds, private grants, and membership dues collected by the PTA. The money was used to support a lavish lifestyle that featured trips to casinos, spending on mystical services, and other personal indulgences.
A forensic audit performed in 2022 by attorney and former federal prosecutor Seth Waxman, prompted by financial challenges within the Maryland PTA, uncovered evidence of complex financial wrongdoing. This included the operation of eleven separate bank accounts, which Waxman described as part of a suspected money laundering scheme.
Financial records showed that Carrera made more than 70 ATM withdrawals at eight different casinos located in Maryland, Philadelphia, North Carolina, and Las Vegas, totaling over $50,000. Additionally, about $88,000 was withdrawn at ATMs outside casino premises.
Expenditures on Gambling and Spiritual Services
Court evidence indicates that Carrera spent upwards of $13,000 on a Las Vegas trip characterized as romantic in nature. Beyond gambling, she directed around $27,000 toward psychic readings, spiritual consultations, and various magical rituals, including those marketed as “money bringing” and “slot machine luck” spells.
One extraordinary allegation, reported by FOX Baltimore, claims Carrera bought a spell aimed at dissolving the marriage of Quincy Gant, who eventually became her romantic partner.
Additional Financial Troubles
Further financial disclosures reveal that Carrera declared bankruptcy in 2016 and currently owes more than $3 million to over seventy creditors.
Waxman has submitted his audit report to the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the FBI. He expressed skepticism that the Maryland PTA will regain the lost funds through civil litigation but hopes that a criminal case may result in financial restitution. The matter is now under federal prosecution.
