Indiana Middle School Secretary Accused of Stealing Students' Prescriptions

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A secretary at a middle school in eastern Indiana has been arrested after police say she stole prescription pills meant for students. Emily Dare of Connersville was arrested and booked into jail on misdemeanor charges of theft and possession of a controlled substance. The investigation began in October when the school nurse reported multiple prescription medications belonging to students were missing from the school's medication vault.

Why it matters

The alleged theft of students' prescription medications raises concerns about the safety and security of medication management at schools, as well as the potential impact on students who rely on these medications. It also highlights the issue of addiction and the need for support systems for school staff.

The details

According to the police report, the investigation into Dare began last October when the school nurse reported that multiple prescription medications belonging to students were missing from the school's medication vault. Cameras were added to the nurse's office, but did not capture the pill vault. In January, the nurse again reported that pills were missing during a routine medication count. Police concluded that only four people, including the nurse, the principal and Dare, had access to keys for the pill vault. A hidden camera was installed, and on February 6th, seven pills were stolen, with footage showing Dare entering the nurse's office. On February 16th, nine pills of methylphenidate, or Ritalin, were stolen, and camera footage clearly showed Dare opening the medication vault and removing pills. When questioned, Dare admitted to stealing the medication and said she had an addiction problem.

• In October 2025, the school nurse reported multiple prescription medications belonging to students were missing from the school's medication vault.
• In January 2026, the nurse again reported that pills were missing during a routine medication count.
• On February 6, 2026, a hidden camera recorded the theft of seven pills from the medication vault.
• On February 16, 2026, nine pills of methylphenidate were stolen, and camera footage showed Dare taking the pills.
• On February 17, 2026, Dare was arrested and booked into Union County Jail.

What’s next

An initial hearing in Union Circuit Court is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. on Feb. 23 in front of Judge Matthew R. Cox, where Dare will face charges of theft and possession of a controlled substance.