Full Breakdown
DeKalb County Superintendent Devon Horton Indicted on Federal Charges
10/10/2025, 4:30:42 PM
Overview of the Indictment
Dr. Devon Horton, the superintendent of DeKalb County Schools in Georgia, was suspended on October 9, 2025, following a federal indictment filed by the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Illinois. The indictment alleges Horton engaged in a scheme involving wire fraud, embezzlement, and tax evasion during his tenure as superintendent of the Evanston/Skokie School District 65 from 2020 to 2023. He faces 17 counts, including accusations of steering contracts to associates and receiving kickbacks totaling approximately $85,000.
Details of the Allegations
The indictment outlines that Horton, along with three associates—Antonio Ross, Samuel Ross, and Alfonzo Lewis—created a network of companies that received contracts from District 65 and Chicago Public Schools. These companies allegedly submitted false invoices for services not rendered, with Horton approving these invoices while concealing his financial interests. The contracts involved included payments of $139,500 to Connecting the Dots Leadership Initiative LLC, $119,500 to Asset Protection Specialist LLC, and $24,500 to New Flight 35 Sports & Academic Academy LLC.
Background and Context
Horton was hired as DeKalb County Schools superintendent in July 2023, amidst controversy regarding his previous leadership in Illinois. His hiring followed a search process that raised concerns among community members about his qualifications for managing a significantly larger school district. During his time in DeKalb, Horton faced operational challenges, including payroll delays and budget disputes, which he attributed to the need for systemic reform.
Official Statements & Responses
In response to the indictment, the DeKalb County Board of Education placed Horton on paid administrative leave and appointed Dr. Norman C. Sauce III as interim superintendent. Board Chair Deirdre Pierce expressed concern over the allegations, emphasizing the district's commitment to maintaining a supportive educational environment. Horton’s attorney, Terence Campbell, defended his client, stating that the allegations are unrelated to his work in DeKalb and that Horton is eager to address the charges in court.
Criticism & Opposition
The indictment has drawn mixed reactions from the DeKalb community. Some parents expressed disappointment but noted that the district has faced numerous challenges, suggesting that the indictment is just one of many issues. Critics have pointed to Horton's past controversies, including a federal lawsuit alleging race-based programming during his time in Illinois, as indicative of deeper systemic problems within the district.
What's Next
The DeKalb County School Board will continue to review Horton’s status pending legal developments. If the indictment leads to a conviction, it could result in severe penalties, including fines and potential imprisonment. Additionally, Georgia law allows the governor to appoint a review commission to determine whether Horton should be suspended from his position, which could further impact the district's leadership during a critical period of reform.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We are deeply troubled and angered by these allegations.” — Sergio Hernandez, Board President, Evanston/Skokie School District 65
- “served the DeKalb County School District honorably and with the highest integrity.” — Terence Campbell, Attorney for Dr. Devon Horton
- “Our top priority remains the well-being of our students, staff, and the entire DCSD community.” — Deirdre Pierce, Chairperson, DeKalb County Board of Education
- “eager to address his case in court so he can return his focus to bettering the lives and education of children.” — Terence Campbell, Attorney for Dr. Devon Horton
This situation continues to evolve as the DeKalb County School District navigates the implications of the indictment and its impact on the community and educational environment.
