UPDATED 8/16: The charges against Eduardo Ramos were dropped.
The primary financial watchdog for Texas’ eighth-largest school district, Austin ISD, is facing criminal charges related to alleged insurance fraud.
According to the Austin American Statesman, Eduardo Ramos was arrested early Wednesday morning. He is expected to face felony charges for alleged insurance fraud.
At this time, it does not appear that the charges against Ramos are related to his duties with the district.
Superintendent Matias Segura explained, in a statement posted to the district’s website, that Ramos had submitted his resignation in mid-July. It was scheduled to go into effect on August 16. Ramos has been on administrative leave since July 31.
The turmoil comes as the district faces criticism for a tax increase they are expected to place on the ballot this November. As Texas Scorecard previously reported, the district is likely to call for a voter approval tax rate election to cover a projected 2025 budget deficit of $78 million. District trustees approved a budget of over $1 billion in June.
The arrest of the district’s chief financial officer, while they’re pursuing a tax increase, appears likely to raise more questions than answers.
To qualify for the November ballot, district trustees must approve the ballot language by the end of August.
Regardless, four trustee positions are on the ballot this fall. Election day is November 5.
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