ELWOOD, Ind. (WTHR) — The superintendent of the Elwood Community School Corporation is facing charges of official misconduct, insurance fraud and identity deception.
According to court documents, Superintendent Casey Smitherman took a 15-year-old student to a MedCheck clinic in Elwood after the student became sick and didn't show up to school.
Police said Smitherman used her insurance information to check the 15-year-old student in under her son's name at the clinic.
Smitherman also used her insurance to pay for an antibiotic prescription for the teen.
She told police she has helped the student in the past by buying him clothes and helping him clean his house.
She also didn't call child protective services, fearing the teen would be placed in foster care.
The Elwood Community Schools Board of Trustees released the following statement:
Dr. Smitherman has tirelessly worked for the best interests of all students in Elwood Community Schools since she was hired.
She made an unfortunate mistake, but we understand that it was out of concern for this child’s welfare.
We know she understands what she did was wrong, but she continues to have our support.
It is our understanding that the prosecutor has agreed to a diversion program and that will be finalized this afternoon.