New Letters Refute Embezzling Bookkeeper's Narrative

Saucier Is Also Being Sued in Small Claims Court

Photo by Glenn Carstens-Peters on Unsplash

Early in 2024, Tammy Jo Saucier was arrested for allegedly stealing money from an elementary school and shooting at Sheriff’s deputies. Late in 2024, former Doctor’s Inlet Elementary bookkeeper Tammy Jo Saucier penned letters to the judge presiding over her case asking for leniency and reduced sentencing.

Embezzling Bookkeeper Begs Judge For Leniency

Two new letters have been submitted to Judge Kallaher in response to Saucier's letters. The first letter, from teacher Kristi Mineo, gives insight into Saucier’s alleged crimes and their consequences for the school's staff, students, and parents. According to the letter, the school owed the Scholastic book company over $10,000 and could not host a book fair for nearly two years due to the debt. The school has a book fair planned for this January.

In addition to stealing money from the school, Saucier also borrowed money from school staff and did not repay it. The letter claims Saucier owed over $1,000 to one person in particular.

As bad as that is for the staff, it pales in comparison to the consequences for the students. Doctor’s Inlet Elementary is a Title 1 school, which is a designation given to schools with a high percentage of low-income families. These schools receive extra funding for staff and programs to improve student performance.

It was these low-income families that were the most impacted by the alleged crimes of Saucier, according to Mineo. School activities and celebrations were canceled due to funds being stolen. One particularly frustrating example is a field trip to Busch Gardens planned for the school’s Safety Patrols. The students made it to the theme park, only to learn that their tickets had not been paid for, and the school’s credit card was maxed out. Luckily, a parent could cover the cost, and the students could enjoy their day.

Kristi Mineo's Letter To Judge Kallaher

Another letter was submitted by Jana O’Neal, a Doctor’s Inlet parent turned School Advisory Committee member. In it, O’Neal states that Saucier should face the maximum possible consequences. Her alleged crimes are part of a years-long pattern, and Saucier has yet to show remorse.

Jana O'neal's Letter To The Judge

O’Neal’s letter also points out that Saucier’s alleged thefts undermine the school's Parent-Faculty Association (PFA). The PFA works with community members and businesses to provide experiences beyond what the school could otherwise offer.

The letters from Mineo and O’Neal were marked as ex-parte communication and were not reviewed by the judge, as were the original letters from Saucier. It is unclear when or if the court will review any of the letters.

On Christmas Eve, another case was filed against Saucier. Mariner Finance is taking Saucier to small claims court for a debt owed. The suit alleges that Saucier owes $1,962 on a loan of $2,951 she took in 2020.

Small Claims Case Filed Against Tammy Saucier

Per court documents, Saucier will be allowed to participate in a County Court Mediation Program to mediate small claims cases:

“This program provides both parties with an opportunity to resolve their dispute without returning to court for trial. The Mediation Program has a 72% resolution rate.

The Program uses volunteer mediators trained and certified by the Florida Supreme Court.

These mediators help parties to try to reach a mutually acceptable agreement. The mediator cannot provide legal advice or tell you if you have a good case. However, the mediator is there as a neutral party seeking to help the parties reach a resolution. If you are unable to reach an agreement, your case will be set for pre trial at a later date.”

It is unclear if Saucier has agreed to use the program. The next hearing date for Sacuier’s criminal cases is set for January 27th at 9 am.