Evanston, Illinois, October 11, 2025
News Summary
Devon Horton, the former Superintendent of Evanston/Skokie District 65, faces 17 federal charges including wire fraud and embezzlement related to a kickback scheme. The indictment alleges that he received over $80,000 in kickbacks while defrauding the school district and Chicago Public Schools of approximately $293,500. In response to the allegations, District 65 has implemented safeguards to prevent similar misconduct. Community members express concerns regarding the implications on potential school closures amidst significant financial challenges.
Evanston, Illinois – The former Superintendent of Evanston/Skokie District 65, Devon Horton, has been indicted on 17 federal charges including wire fraud, embezzlement, and tax fraud. The indictment alleges Horton was involved in a kickback scheme that defrauded the school district and Chicago Public Schools out of a significant sum of money.
From June 2020 to June 2023, Horton is accused of receiving over $80,000 in kickbacks while serving as the superintendent. Along with Horton, three associates—Antonio Ross, Alfonzo Lewis, and Samuel Ross—are also facing charges related to the scheme. The fraudulent activity allegedly included contracts for services such as leadership coaching and facilities security that were improperly paid for by District 65.
The total amount that might have been defrauded from the district is reported to be approximately $293,500. Furthermore, Horton misused a school district-issued purchasing card for personal expenses amounting to over $30,000. If convicted of wire fraud, he could face up to 20 years in prison and additional fines for tax evasion.
This indictment follows a thorough investigation by the U.S. Department of Education, which has been probing Horton’s activities for more than two years. As a result of the allegations, the leadership of District 65 has expressed deep concern and frustration. The Board President and Vice President have confirmed their disappointment regarding the breach of trust presented by these charges.
In light of these serious allegations, District 65 has already implemented new safeguards aimed at preventing the mismanagement of contracts and purchasing cards since Horton left the district. Community members have also begun to voice concerns, particularly regarding the implications of the indictment on school closure processes. During a recent meeting, voices within the community have called for more transparency and data from the district before any decisions are made about operational cutbacks.
One parent representative mentioned that the implications of the indictment have heightened suspicions about potential school closures. This comes at a time when District 65 is facing significant financial challenges, needing to cut up to $15 million in expenses. A school board meeting with public input sessions is scheduled, with a crucial vote on potential school closures expected on November 17.
Following his departure from District 65, Horton was hired as superintendent in DeKalb County, Georgia, but has since been placed on paid administrative leave due to these ongoing investigations. This situation underscores a severe breach of trust within the district, as current school board leaders seek to manage both the fallout from this indictment and ongoing financial challenges.
Key Points
- Former Superintendent Devon Horton indicted on 17 charges including wire fraud and embezzlement.
- Allegations indicate involvement in a kickback scheme defrauding the district and others.
- Horton received over $80,000 in kickbacks while in office.
- District 65 potentially lost approximately $293,500 in fraudulent contracts.
- Getting invoked in a significant financial oversight and loss of public trust.
Upcoming Actions
- Public input sessions scheduled before a critical school board meeting.
- Vote on potential school closures expected on November 17.
Background Context
Devon Horton was appointed as Superintendent of Evanston/Skokie District 65 in 2020, where he served until June 2023. Prior to his appointment, Horton held various educational leadership roles and was seen as a promising figure. However, the unfolding investigation into his financial dealings has raised alarms and casts a shadow over his professional history. Current district leaders focus on rebuilding after the fallout from these allegations.
FAQ
What are the federal charges against Devon Horton?
Devon Horton has been indicted on 17 counts, including wire fraud, embezzlement, and tax fraud related to a kickback scheme that defrauded Evanston/Skokie District 65.
How much money was allegedly defrauded from the district?
The total amount allegedly defrauded from District 65 is approximately $293,500.
What actions has the school district taken following Horton’s departure?
Since Horton’s departure, District 65 has implemented new safeguards to prevent mismanagement of contracts and purchasing cards.
When will a decision about potential school closures be made?
A vote on potential school closures is expected on November 17.
Key Features Chart
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Accusations | Kickback scheme, embezzlement, wire fraud, tax fraud |
| Amount Defrauded | $293,500 approximately |
| Kickbacks Received | $80,000 |
| Personal Expenses | $30,000 |
| Potential Prison Time | Up to 20 years for wire fraud |
| Current Position | Placed on paid administrative leave in DeKalb County, Georgia |
| Projected School Closure Vote | November 17 |
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Additional Resources
- Evanston RoundTable
- Chicago Tribune
- Daily Northwestern
- ABC 7 Chicago
- Chicago Sun-Times
- Wikipedia: Fraud
- Google Search: Devon Horton indictment
- Google Scholar: educational institution governance
- Encyclopedia Britannica: embezzlement
- Google News: Evanston District 65 scandal
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