Former Montgomery Central Middle School basketball coach indicted in misappropriation of funds

A former boys' basketball coach at Montgomery Central Middle School has been indicted in the alleged theft of property involving fundraising money.

An investigation into David Lemont Bryant, former basketball coach and assistant teacher, was initiated after school officials reported an allegation of potential misconduct to the Tennessee Comptroller's Office.

According to the investigation, Bryant misappropriated money from a fundraiser for basketball gear and a T-shirt fundraiser totaling at least $988.28 between September and October 2022.

Bryant was placed on administrative leave on Nov. 3, 2022, after MCMS staff began reviewing fundraising collection and was later terminated effective Nov. 10, 2022.

In August 2023, the Montgomery County Grand Jury indicted Byrant for one count of theft of property of $1,000.

“School officials should ensure staff maintain collection logs and issue receipts when accepting payments,” said Comptroller Jason E. Mumpower. “It’s also important to follow policy and state law requiring deposit within three days of receipt, and to ensure all fundraisers are properly approved before they begin.”

Reporter Kenya Anderson can be reached at kanderson@nashvill.gannett.com or on X at KenyaAnderson32.

This article originally appeared on Clarksville Leaf-Chronicle: Former Montgomery Central Middle School basketball coach indicted