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September 24.2025
2 Minutes Read

Shocking Embezzlement Case: Liberty High School Booster Club Members Charged

Pickens County Courier newspaper header referencing local area.

Embezzlement Scandal Rocks Liberty High School Booster Club

In a shocking turn of events for the Liberty High School community, three individuals from a single family have been charged in connection with the embezzlement of approximately $40,000 from the school's booster club. The allegations involve the former treasurer, Brandy Spivey Karr, along with accomplices Scottie Ray Karr and Shaun Ray Karr, who are now facing serious accusations of conspiracy along with breach of trust and computer crimes.

According to police reports, the embezzlement occurred over a two-year span, highlighting concerns about financial oversight and trust within local support organizations. The School District of Pickens County has publicly stated their commitment to transparency and to implementing policies to prevent such incidents in the future.

The Impact on School Spirit and Community Trust

Booster clubs serve as vital components of public school life, often helping raise funds for various programs and activities that enrich student experiences. However, this scandal raises questions about accountability and trust among donor families and local businesses who contribute to the program. Parents are now left to wonder how their contributions were managed and the safeguards that are in place to protect their investments in school spirit.

Moving Forward: Learning from the Past

Such incidents can undermine the goodwill fostered by community initiatives. To rebuild trust, schools must work hand-in-hand with parents and community members, ensuring transparency in their operations. Regular audits and open lines of communication may help restore faith in how funds are handled, making future fundraising efforts more effective.

This incident, although upsetting, can serve as a turning point for establishing stricter regulations and better support systems within local organizations.

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11.09.2025

Why the Oconee County Sheriff’s Office Recovers $20,000 in Sweepstakes Scam

Update The Oconee County Scam Recovery: A Closer Look In a commendable feat against fraud, the Oconee County Sheriff's Office has successfully facilitated the return of $20,000 to a victim ensnared by a sweepstakes scam. This incident, which occurred in September 2025, involved scammers masquerading as representatives from Publisher's Clearing House, claiming the victim had won a substantial prize but needed to pay upfront fees. This narrative isn't just a singular occurrence; it highlights a disturbing trend that many communities face regarding fraud and scam operations. Unpacking the Scam The scammers initially informed the victim of a supposed triumph—a hefty $250,000 win and a luxurious Mercedes-Benz. However, to claim her prize, she was allegedly required to pay $20,000 in fees. Victims of such scams often fall prey to emotional manipulation, being lured in by excitement and urgency, as highlighted by Sheriff Mike Crenshaw. He advises the public that legitimate sweepstakes will never demand payments upfront, emphasizing that one must actively enter to win. How Swift Action Led to Recovery The urgency of the situation prompted the Financial Crimes Unit to act quickly. After the victim sent the cashier's check, which later cleared, the team secured a search and seizure warrant for the receiving bank. This decisive action led to the recovery of the full amount, a rare success story in the ongoing battle against financial scams. The Sheriff’s Office aims to use this case as a learning tool, underscoring key strategies for residents to avoid falling victim to similar schemes. Protecting Yourself Against Fraud Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and skeptical. Here are a few actionable insights to keep in mind: Ignore unsolicited calls, texts, or emails that claim you have won a prize you did not enter. Verify any claims independently—rush into a decision often leads to regrets. Maintain minimal contact with unknown individuals, as scammers often seek to exploit trust. Interactive Community Efforts As this case continues to unfold and the investigation continues, local residents are encouraged to engage with their community’s resources on fraud awareness. The Sheriff’s Office aims to conduct informational sessions to better equip citizens against such scams. Staying informed and connected can be a powerful tool in this shared fight against fraud.

11.09.2025

Oconee County Scam Alerts: Stay Safe and Informed to Avoid Fraud

Update Stay Alert: Oconee County Faces Rising Scams The Oconee County Sheriff's Office has issued a critical warning to residents about ongoing scams that threaten financial security and personal safety. With the rise of sophisticated fraud tactics, it's essential to remain vigilant, especially when approached by unsolicited callers. Understanding the Scams: What You Need to Know Recently, two distinct scams were reported. The first features fraudsters impersonating a law enforcement officer named “Officer Holloway”. They are contacting individuals with claims that they missed jury duty in a federal murder case, demanding a steep payment of $2,000 through OnePay prepaid cards. Failure to comply allegedly results in a threat of 72 hours in jail. Disturbingly, one victim has already lost that amount without any possibility of recovery. The second scam involves a deceptive Apple technician who gained remote access to a victim's phone, leading to a significant theft of $891, which included funds stolen directly from their Apple ID and bank account. This incident highlights the dangers of sharing personal information or granting access during unexpected calls. How to Protect Yourself from Scams To defend against such fraudulent schemes, residents are reminded that legitimate law enforcement will never request money to evade arrest. It's critical to: Ignore unknown callers and verify their claims through official channels. Never share personal or financial information with unsolicited contacts. Stay calm if you receive intimidating calls. Final Thoughts: Reporting Scams Your vigilance can help protect not just your finances but also those of your community. If you experience or witness suspicious activities, report them immediately to the Oconee County Sheriff's Office at (864) 638-4111. Remember, awareness is your best defense.

11.09.2025

Jaime Motta Found Not Guilty: What This Case Teaches About Justice

Update Justice Delivered: The Not Guilty Verdict in Jaime Motta's Case On November 7, 2025, a jury in Oconee County found Jaime Mamian Motta not guilty of serious charges including kidnapping and criminal sexual conduct, after a trial that unfolded dramatically over nearly two and a half years of incarceration. The jury's verdict was announced after just two hours of deliberation, sparking relief and celebration among supporters who had rallied around Motta throughout his ordeal. The Long Wait for Justice Motta's journey to freedom began in June 2023 when he was arrested under allegations that were later revealed to be unfounded. Charged with human trafficking and sexual assault, he found himself ensnared in a lengthy legal battle compounded by institutional delays and a lack of due process. According to his defense attorney, E. Charles Grose Jr., the prosecution's case hinged on allegations of a consensual relationship, dismissing the claim of coercion that initially led to Motta's arrest. A System Under Scrutiny The trial unearthed deep-seated issues surrounding the local judicial system in Oconee County, characterized by delayed trials and questionable prosecutorial conduct. Motta was incarcerated for over 900 days without an evidentiary hearing—an alarming violation of his Sixth Amendment rights. Observers highlighted that this case reflects broader systemic problems, where innocent individuals are pressured for plea deals or unjustly held under the weight of spurious accusations. Repurposing Pain into Purpose Although Motta has been acquitted, his struggle emphasizes the urgent need for reform within the Oconee County justice system. As the community rallies behind him, there is a burgeoning call for accountability and transparency in legal proceedings. The pervasive culture of coercion and fear within local law enforcement needs to be addressed to prevent future injustices against innocent individuals. Looking Forward: Advocacy for Change Jaime Motta may now be a free man, but the fight continues for those who have suffered in silence. His case stands as a testament to the potential for change driven by community advocacy. By holding authorities accountable and demanding legal reforms, individuals can ensure that justice is not just a right for some, but a reality for all. As the narrative surrounding Motta's ordeal unfolds, it serves as both a warning and a rallying point, reminding us that liberty must be guarded fiercely against systemic inertia and corruption. Public demand for reform is stronger now than ever, and with continued solidarity, the path to justice can be rightly paved for everyone.

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