On 5 June 2025, a former financial officer at Delmas Primary School appeared before the Delmas Regional Court. 52-year-old Larrisa Vern has been convicted of fraud and money laundering. She is accused of stealing more than R2 million from the school over a period of two years.
“Vern was appointed in her position in December 2021 and assumed her duties in January 2022,” said Mpumalanga Hawks spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Magonseni Nkosi.
Shortly after joining the school, a whistleblower notified the authorities about Vern’s criminal activities. The whistleblower reported that Vern had made two bonus payments to her bank account.
Today in Delmas Regional Court, the Asset Forfeiture Unit presented their case as to why Vern should have her assets confiscated and a possible lengthier sentence.
THE HAWKS GO DIGGING FOR SCHOOL MONIES
“The matter was referred to the Hawks for investigation. The team of investigators managed to secure a warrant of arrest on 06 February 2024 that resulted in her arrest three days later on 09 February 2024,” said Nkosi.
He said as the investigation continued, more dirty linen was uncovered by the Hawks. It was established that Vern caused an actual loss of R2 792 912.58 to Delmas Primary School.
According to Nkosi, Vern allegedly paid money to four different bank accounts using different references. After making the payments, she then transferred the monies into her main account.
A LITANY OF FRAUD AND MONEY LAUNDERING CHARGES
Nkosi said the state successfully proved 94 counts of fraud and 555 counts of money laundering. Vern pleaded guilty on all charges before Delmas Regional Court on 21 May 2025.
She was sentenced to 15 years imprisonment for fraud. Five of the years are suspended for five years, on condition that she is not involved in fraudulent activities during the time of suspension.
Vern was sentenced to a further ten years in prison for money laundering. Both sentences will run concurrently.
PROSECUTION HEAD SAYS CRIME DOES NOT PAY
The Provincial Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, Major General Nico Gerber, has commended the team of investigators for the work they did on the case. He said the prosecution team handled the case in an excellent manner.
“The next step is to seize the proceeds she accumulated through her criminal activities. Gone are the days that you can benefit from your criminal deeds,” he said.
DO YOU THINK 15 YEARS IS AN ADEQUATE SENTENCE FOR FRAUD AND MONEY LAUNDERING?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1
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