Lower Merion School Board Member Charged With Theft From Former Employer: DA

BALA CYNWYD, PA — A Lower Merion School Board member is facing theft charges after authorities say she misused more than $50,000 of her former employer's funds for vacations, Bar Mitzvah photography and other and Amazon purchases.

Jennifer Rivera, 41, made the purchases on a company credit card while working for SMB, a law firm marketing agency in Bala Cynwyd, authorities said.

Rivera was charged Friday with four counts of theft and other third-degree felony offenses. She turned herself in Monday.

A judge set bail at $25,000 unsecured and ordered her not to contact anyone at SMB. Rivera is set to return to court Sept. 2 for a preliminary hearing.

Rivera was elected to the Lower Merion School Board last year. Its uncertain whether the charges will impact her status with the governing body.

None of the charges relate to the school district, its finances or taxpayer funds, says School Board President Dr. Kerry Sautner.

"As of this time, I have not had an opportunity to discuss Ms. Rivera’s future on the School Board with her," Sautner said in an emailed statement. "While it is important to note that anyone charged with a crime remains innocent until proven guilty, we must also consider the potential impact of this situation on our Board."

She did not immediately return comment to Patch.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.