Former Wake Forest Elementary PTA Treasurer Charged with Embezzlement

Anna-Marie Ethridge accused of stealing tens of thousands from PTA account in 2025

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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The former treasurer of the Wake Forest Elementary PTA, Anna-Marie Ethridge, has been charged with felony embezzlement after allegedly stealing nearly $33,000 from the organization's account in January 2025. Ethridge turned herself in to authorities on Wednesday and appeared in court on Thursday, where she declined to comment on the case.

Why it matters

The alleged theft of funds from the PTA, a nonprofit organization separate from the school district, has raised concerns about the public's trust in volunteer-run community groups. PTA organizations play an important role in supporting schools, and this case highlights the need for strong financial oversight and accountability measures.

The details

According to court documents, Ethridge is accused of embezzling nearly $33,000 from the Wake Forest Elementary PTA account in January 2025. The Wake Forest Police Department received a tip about the missing funds in November of that year and launched an investigation. Ethridge turned herself in to authorities on Wednesday, and she appeared in court on Thursday, where she declined to comment on the case.

  • Ethridge allegedly embezzled the funds in January 2025.
  • The police received a tip about the missing money in November 2025.
  • Ethridge turned herself in to authorities on Wednesday, February 19, 2026.
  • Ethridge appeared in court on Thursday, February 20, 2026.

The players

Anna-Marie Ethridge

The former treasurer of the Wake Forest Elementary PTA who is accused of embezzling nearly $33,000 from the organization's account in January 2025.

Wake Forest Elementary PTA

An independent nonprofit organization that supports the Wake Forest Elementary School, separate from the school district's funds.

Wake Forest Police Department

The law enforcement agency that investigated the alleged embezzlement and filed charges against Ethridge.

Chell Smith

The principal of Wake Forest Elementary School, who sent an email to parents addressing the situation.

Michael McFarland

The attorney representing Ethridge, who declined to comment on the case.

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What they’re saying

“Its a violation of the public trust and that's always sad.”

— Bill Crabtree, Wake Forest spokesperson (CBS17)

“They got to live with it I mean I couldn't live with it myself with that so.”

— Christopher Rocchio, Parent (CBS17)

What’s next

Ethridge is scheduled to appear in court again in March to face the embezzlement charges.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of strong financial oversight and accountability measures for volunteer-run community organizations like PTAs, which play a vital role in supporting local schools and the public's trust in them.