Thursday morning, former Bellefontaine Band Director Jeremy Karg was sentenced to five years of Community Control after pleading guilty to Theft in Office, a fourth-degree felony.
Karg admitted to embezzling funds from Bellefontaine City Schools over a five-year period, specifically band fees intended to support the school’s music program.
The theft was discovered in August 2023 when Karg failed to deposit the funds, prompting an investigation by the Bellefontaine Police Department.
During the court proceedings, Karg opened up about his gambling addiction, explaining that he had been struggling with it since high school and describing the feeling as “a rush.”
He shared that he had been in counseling for the past eight to nine months to treat the addiction and emphasized that he does not suffer from any other addictions.
Karg also expressed that “a higher power has gotten me through this,” crediting his faith for helping him cope during this difficult time.
Karg’s attorney, Marc Triplett, referenced a statement from Karg’s friend and current employer, Wes Easton.
Easton expressed his disappointment and anger toward Karg for his actions but also acknowledged the positive changes he has seen in Karg since he began treatment.
He went on to praise Karg as a “good employee” who works hard and has turned his life around, providing a hopeful perspective on Karg’s efforts at rehabilitation.
Karg owes Bellefontaine City Schools a total of $35,000.
He has already repaid $20,000 through a check issued in December 2024, with the remaining $15,000 to be deducted from his State Teachers Retirement Fund in monthly payments of $416.47.
Karg is also responsible for paying all court costs associated with his case.
Judge Kevin Braig recognized Karg’s remorse, stating, “You’ve shown genuine remorse for your actions.”
However, the judge made it clear that Karg faces up to 18 months in prison if he violates the terms of his Community Control.
