Kristina Rhea Smith, a 52-year-old former Fannin County Justice of the Peace Precinct 2 Clerk, has been indicted following her arrest for embezzlement earlier this year. Smith is accused of embezzling nearly $400,000 from the county over a span of approximately eight years.
Fannin County District Attorney Richard Glaser stated, “She’s been with Fannin County for over 25 years,” noting her career progression from the county clerk’s office to the district clerk’s office, and ultimately to the JP office in 2006. Smith continued in her role until her termination after being arrested by the Texas Rangers for embezzlement in June.
The allegations surfaced during an audit of all Justice of the Peace Offices in Fannin County, which revealed significant discrepancies in the cash balances for Precinct 2. It was discovered that tickets were being dismissed while cash was deposited elsewhere, not in Fannin County’s bank accounts.
Glaser remarked, “It’s really disheartening to know that somebody you trust… we’re like a family here in Fannin County.” He emphasized that the audit team meticulously uncovered the embezzlement, detailing the flow of funds. He confirmed that neither the precinct 2 justice of the peace at the time nor the constable were involved in the wrongdoing.
Smith's next scheduled court date is October 9th at 9:00 AM at the Fannin County District Court.
