FORMER TCAT ELIZABETHTON EMPLOYEES INDICTED IN $1 MILLION MISAPPROPRIATION SCHEME
Two former employees of the Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) Elizabethton have been indicted following a state investigation that uncovered a multi-year scheme misappropriating more than $1 million in public resources.
John Lige Lee and Mark Allen DeHart were indicted by a Carter County Grand Jury on multiple felony counts, including theft and computer offenses, following an investigation by the Tennessee Comptroller’s Office and the Tennessee Board of Regents.
Key Findings of the Investigation
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The Private Business Scheme: Between 2019 and 2023, Lee and DeHart operated a private venture called D&L Education Solutions. The business raked in at least $940,841 by securing contracts with major organizations—such as Kubota, Bobcat, Subaru, and the ATF—for curriculum development and industry training.
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Misuse of State Resources: Investigators revealed the two men improperly used TCAT equipment, facilities, staff, and work hours to fulfill their private business contracts. D&L also deceptively used the college’s address to imply an official affiliation.
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Unearned Wages and Funds: Lee collected at least $82,726 and DeHart received at least $15,514 in unearned wages for time spent on personal activities or outside work during college hours. Lee additionally misappropriated $19,413 through improper travel reimbursements.
Indictments and Next Steps
Both individuals resigned from the college on January 26, 2023, after internal auditors flagged suspicious financial activity.
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John Lige Lee faces two counts of theft over $60,000, one count of conspiracy to commit theft over $60,000, one count of computer offenses over $10,000, and one count of theft over $10,000.
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Mark Allen DeHart faces one count of theft over $60,000, one count of conspiracy to commit theft over $60,000, one count of computer offenses over $10,000, and one count of theft over $10,000.
“College resources, employees, and business relationships must be used to benefit the institution and its students, not private businesses,” Comptroller Jason Mumpower stated, emphasizing the critical need for strong management oversight.
