Neuqua Valley High School Employee Accused of Making Personal Purchases Using School-Issued Credit Card

DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Naperville Chief of Police Jason Arres announced today that a Naperville woman is accused of illegally using an Indian Prairie School District #204 credit card for personal use. On June 13, 2023, Judge James McCluskey issued a $3,000 with 10% to apply arrest warrant for Tracie Mondell, 39 (d.o.b. 3/11/1984) of the 400 block of Gartner Road. This morning, Mondell turned herself in to authorities at the Naperville Police Station, posted the necessary 10% of her bond, or $300, and was released from custody.

Mondell was employed as the Neuqua Valley High School Financial Secretary and as such, was provided with a School District #204 credit card. It is alleged that between November 22 and November 27, 2022, Mondell illegally utilized the district-issued credit card for personal use. It is alleged that the purchases totaled between $500 and $10,000.

“Through her alleged actions, Mrs. Mondell abused the trust placed in her by Neuqua Valley High School for her own personal gain,” Berlin said. “I would like to thank authorities at the school for bringing this matter to the attention of law enforcement and for their complete cooperation throughout the investigation. I also thank the Naperville Police Department for their work in unraveling Ms. Mondell’s alleged scheme as well as Assistant State’s Attorney Michael Pingaj for his work in preparing a strong case against Ms. Mondell.”

“The theft of taxpayer money that's supposed to benefit our community's children, as alleged in this case, is inexcusable," said Police Chief Jason Arres. "I'm always grateful for the thorough work of our financial crimes detectives who unravel these complex cases and the partnership of State's Attorney Bob Berlin’s office in bringing charges against those responsible.”

Mondell is charged with one count of Theft of Governmental Property, a Class 2 Felony. Her next court date is scheduled for arraignment on July 18, 2023, in front of Judge Margaret O’Connell.

Members of the public are reminded that this complaint contains only charges and is not proof of the defendant’s guilt. A defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial in which it is the government’s burden to prove his or her guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

Tracie Mondell

About Naperville: Located 28 miles west of Chicago, Naperville, Ill., is home to approximately 150,000 people. This vibrant, thriving city consistently ranks as a top community in the nation in which to live, raise children and retire. The city is home to acclaimed public and parochial schools, the best public library system in the country, an array of healthcare options and an exceptionally low crime rate. Naperville has ready access to a variety of public transportation, housing and employment options. The city’s diversified employer base features high technology firms, retailers and factories, as well as small and home-based businesses. Residents also enjoy world-class parks, diverse worship options, the opportunity to serve on several City boards and commissions, a thriving downtown shopping and dining area, a renowned outdoor history museum known as Naper Settlement and an active civic community. For more information, please visit our website at www.naperville.il.us.