Former Natchez Municipal Clerk Pleads Guilty to Embezzlement

Rebekah Turner sentenced to 20 years with 19 suspended, 5 years probation, and $5,000 in fines.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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Rebekah Turner, the former Accounts Receivables Clerk for the City of Natchez, has pleaded guilty to one count of embezzlement. Turner admitted to taking cash from deposits made to her office by other city departments and converting that money to her own personal use.

Why it matters

This case highlights the importance of strong financial controls and oversight in local government to prevent fraud and protect taxpayer dollars. The State Auditor's Office has made it clear they have a zero-tolerance policy for theft of public funds.

The details

Turner was sentenced by the 6th District Circuit Court to 20 years in prison, with 19 years suspended, 5 years of probation, and ordered to pay $5,000 in fines plus court costs and fees. The State Auditor's Office worked with prosecutors on this case and encourages the public to report any suspected fraud.

  • On February 9, 2026, Rebekah Turner pleaded guilty to one count of embezzlement.

The players

Rebekah Turner

The former Accounts Receivables Clerk for the City of Natchez who pleaded guilty to embezzling city funds.

Shad White

The State Auditor of Mississippi who has a zero-tolerance policy for theft of taxpayer dollars.

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What they’re saying

“The State Auditor's Office has a zero-tolerance policy for theft of taxpayer dollars. We will continue to work with prosecutors across the state to deliver results for taxpayers.”

— Shad White, State Auditor (natchezdemocrat.com)

What’s next

The judge will determine if Rebekah Turner will be allowed to serve her sentence on probation or if she will have to serve the full 20-year prison term.

The takeaway

This case underscores the importance of strong financial controls and oversight in local government to prevent fraud and protect taxpayer funds. The State Auditor's Office is committed to working with prosecutors to hold public officials accountable for misusing public money.