Montpelier School Custodian Charged with Embezzlement

Matthew Carten accused of stealing over $10,000 in equipment and making $2,000 in unauthorized charges

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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A 42-year-old custodian at Montpelier Roxbury Public Schools in Vermont has been charged with felony embezzlement and false pretenses after allegedly taking over $10,000 worth of equipment and making more than $2,000 in unauthorized charges to the school district's accounts in December.

Why it matters

Embezzlement and theft of public funds from schools is a serious breach of trust that can have significant financial and operational impacts on educational institutions and the communities they serve.

The details

According to Montpelier Police, Matthew Carten of Barre Town is accused of stealing school equipment valued at over $10,000 and making more than $2,000 in unauthorized charges to the Montpelier Roxbury Public Schools' accounts in December. Carten has been cited for felony embezzlement and false pretenses and is scheduled to appear in Washington County Superior Court next month.

  • The alleged incidents occurred in December 2025.
  • Carten is due in court next month.

The players

Matthew Carten

A 42-year-old custodian at Montpelier Roxbury Public Schools who has been charged with felony embezzlement and false pretenses.

Montpelier Roxbury Public Schools

The school district in Montpelier, Vermont where the alleged embezzlement took place.

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What’s next

Carten is scheduled to appear in Washington County Superior Court next month, where the judge will determine if he will be allowed bail or held in custody.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of strong financial controls and oversight in public institutions like schools to prevent theft and misuse of taxpayer funds, which can have significant impacts on educational resources and community trust.