Former Shakopee superintendent arrested for personal use of district credit card

SHAKOPEE, Minn. (KMSP) - Police arrested former Shakopee Schools Superintendent Rod Thompson Tuesday following a six-month investigation into his alleged personal use of his district-issued credit card. 

According to Shakopee Police, the investigation revealed Thompson “abused his district-issued credit card and purchased several items for person use,” including airfare and hotels, various electronics, tickets Grand Ole Opry, sports décor  and memorabilia, alcohol flasks, jewelry and cowboy boots. 

Over the course of five years, Thompson racked up more than $73,642.26 in fraudulent purchases and reimbursements, police said. 

The investigation began in May after multiple citizens submitted a complaint that Thompson made improper purchases on a district credit card. Thompson resigned in June. 

Thompson turned himself into authorities on Monday on state criminal charges. He is also focus of federal probe into district spending and alleged financial kickbacks.

"Rod Thompson has cooperated with authorities for many months during their investigation," Peter Wold, Thompson's defense attorney, said in a statement to Fox 9. "He voluntarily turned himself in today when authorities informed him charges were forthcoming. Rod has paid the school district for knowing use for the P-card he was issued. He looks forward to the opportunity to present the truth in court proceedings." 

The FBI is continuing to investigate.