Detroit Lakes, Becker County (trfnews.i234.me) – A former administrative assistant at Detroit Lakes High School is facing multiple theft charges after allegedly stealing over $10,000, with investigators discovering $89,277 in unexplained deposits into her accounts.
44-year-old Abby Lynn Pettit appeared via video on Thursday, July 10, in Becker County District Court, charged with three felony counts and two misdemeanor counts of theft. She was released on $0 conditional bail, with requirements to remain law-abiding and appear at future hearings. Her next court date is August 25.
Pettit resigned on September 12, 2024, just as school officials began questioning missing funds. As the Activities & Athletics Department assistant, she oversaw deposits for sports and events. Investigators found discrepancies across several accounts, including basketball, hockey, prom, and more, dating from 2022 to 2024.
Authorities allege 119 cash deposits into Pettit’s accounts during that time, with no legitimate source of cash income. Only one known reimbursement check was ever made to the district.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.