An investigation by the Tennessee Comptroller’s Office has resulted in the indictments of Alex and Jessica Ridenour, who served as volunteers for the Anderson County Rescue Squad until their resignations in May 2022.
Investigators determined the Ridenours misappropriated rescue squad funds totaling at least $39,310.97 between May 2021 and April 2022. The rescue squad is primarily funded by contributions from Anderson County government, donations, and fundraisers.
The Ridenours wrote 17 unauthorized checks from the rescue squad bank account to Jessica Ridenour (total $35,010.97), and five unauthorized checks to Alex Ridenour (total $4,300). The checks were deposited into their joint bank account.
The rescue squad’s board chairman told investigators that someone else signed his name on some of the checks.
Based upon this investigation, in September 2024, the Anderson County Grand Jury indicted Alex and Jessica Ridenour. Both face one count of theft of property over $10,000, three counts of forgery over $2,500, and one count of conspiracy to commit theft of property over $10,000.
“This investigation revealed a number of deficient practices within the rescue squad,” said Comptroller Mumpower. “These included pre-signing checks, failing to require two signatures on checks, not requiring or retaining adequate documentation for disbursements, and not reviewing and reconciling bank statements. I encourage prompt correction of these issues.”
To view the investigative report, go here
