Special audit details $3.2 million finding for recovery against former South Central Ohio Computer Association executive director

COLUMBUS — A finding for recovery of more than $3.2 million was issued Tuesday against the former executive director of the South Central Ohio Computer Association Regional Council of Governments (SCOCA), who was convicted of misappropriating funds that were supposed to be used for telecommunications equipment and services at schools.

The finding total was the same as the court-ordered restitution against Shawn Clemmons that remains unpaid, following his guilty plea in November 2019.

The case is detailed in a special audit report, available online at ohioauditor.gov/auditsearch/search.aspx.

SCOCA worked to provide wireless access and related technologies and services to schools in economically disadvantaged areas. Through a federal program, the agency provided reimbursements of up to 90% to schools for the costs of the telecommunications equipment and services, generally within 20 business days after expenditures were made.

SIU launched an investigation in February 2016 after receiving allegations of potential fraud involving Clemmons, who was fired from his position as executive director a few days prior.

SIU determined Clemmons had misappropriated funding to hide financial difficulties at SCOCA, using new federal reimbursements to pay previous years’ bills. The misappropriations cost 55 school districts more than $3 million in lost reimbursements and additional fees.

Clemmons pleaded guilty in federal court to a felony count of making or presenting false claims. His final sentence included a restitution order of more than $3.2 million.

A second individual, Kenneth Collura, a former director of communications and instructional technology through the Catholic Diocese of Columbus’ Office of Catholic Schools, also pleaded guilty in the case to a single felony count. SIU identified an improper contract and misappropriations involving more than $550,000 SCOCA reimbursements by Collura.

Since 2019, the Special Investigations Unit has assisted in 139 convictions resulting in more than $13 million in restitution (see Map of SIU Convictions since January 2019). The team receives hundreds of tips of suspected fraud annually. Tips can be submitted anonymously online or via SIU’s fraud hotline at 866-FRAUD-OH (866-372-8364).

* * *

••• Publisher's note: A free press is critical to having well-informed voters and citizens. While some news organizations opt for paid websites or costly paywalls, The Highland County Press has maintained a free newspaper and website for the last 25 years for our community. If you would like to contribute to this service, it would be greatly appreciated. Donations may be made to: The Highland County Press, P.O. Box 849, Hillsboro, Ohio 45133. Please include "for website" on the memo line.