Virginia school board member sued for allegedly embezzling $175K for strip clubs, vacations, campaign expenses
A Fairfax County School Board member in Virginia is facing a lawsuit from a local flight school, Blue Label Aviation, for allegedly embezzling $175,000 from the company for personal expenses. Kyle McDaniel, who is also the secretary and treasurer of the flight school, is accused of using a company credit card for entertainment, personal expenses, and campaign-related costs.
According to Fox 5 DC, the lawsuit claims that McDaniel initially paid back some of the embezzled funds after being caught by the company’s CEO, Timothy Fischer. However, he allegedly continued to misuse company funds for activities such as visits to strip clubs, family vacations, and luxury items. Additionally, the lawsuit alleges that McDaniel used the money to support his campaign for office.
Blue Label Aviation asserts that McDaniel abused his position within the company to access credit cards and bank accounts for personal use. Fischer confronted McDaniel in June after discovering $120,000 in improper charges, to which McDaniel admitted and reimbursed $50,000. Subsequently, McDaniel reportedly continued to make unauthorized charges totaling $160,000.
When confronted again in January, McDaniel was given the option to resign in exchange for relinquishing his shares in the company and returning his corporate credit cards. However, the lawsuit claims that McDaniel made more unauthorized charges, leading to his termination from Blue Label Aviation.
The lawsuit is seeking $175,000 in restitution, along with punitive damages of $350,000, and demands that McDaniel return his corporate credit cards and remove himself from company bank accounts. In response to the allegations, McDaniel stated that it is an ongoing business dispute that he intends to address in court and not through the media.
Despite the legal issues, McDaniel emphasized his commitment to supporting a public education system that meets the needs of children and the community. Fairfax County Public Schools, where McDaniel serves on the board, acknowledged the civil lawsuit but refrained from commenting further, respecting the legal process.
The case highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in financial matters, especially for individuals holding positions of trust within organizations. Embezzlement and misuse of funds can have serious consequences, both legally and professionally, underscoring the need for ethical behavior and compliance with financial regulations.
