School superintendents plead guilty to embezzlement conspiracy

Two school superintendents pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit embezzlement in federal court Wednesday, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Earl Joe Nelson and Monekea Smith-Taylor appeared before District Judge Sharion Aycock in Aberdeen and admitted to the charges.

The two officials are accused of using their positions to commit financial misconduct. They join Mario Willis, who also pleaded guilty to the same conspiracy in October 2025, the U.S. Attorney’s Office said.

State Auditor Shad White thanked the U.S. Attorney’s Office for its assistance in resolving the case.

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