JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – A former Simpson County Justice Court Deputy Clerk has been arrested for embezzlement and for alteration of records.

State Auditor Shad White said Effie Ramsey allegedly embezzled funds collected from fines and pocketing the money for herself. She was served with a $1,348.05 demand letter at the time of her arrest.

“We will continue to hold the line on misuse of your taxpayer dollars, big or small. This is why we’ve been able to recover more money in the last five years than any other five-year period in the history of the Auditor’s office,” said White.

Ramsey faces up to 20 years and $5,000 in fines if convicted.

A $50,000 surety bond covered Ramsey’s employment at the Simpson County Justice Court. Surety bonds are similar to insurance designed to protect taxpayers from corruption. White said Ramsey will remain liable for the full amount of the demand in addition to criminal proceedings.

Suspected fraud can be reported to the Auditor’s office online by clicking the red button at www.osa.ms.gov or calling 1-(800)-321-1275 during normal business hours.