Tioga, LA (7/16/2024) – On July 9, 2024, patrol deputies responded to a report of possible financial discrepancies involving a local sports organization board. Deputies initiated the report, and the Rapides Sheriff’s Detectives with the Financial Crimes Unit took over the investigation.
Through their investigation, detectives uncovered evidence suggesting theft from the organization and identified a board member, Tracy Borland Smith, 35, of Pollock, LA, as the primary suspect. Sources have identified Borland as a senior member of the Ward 10 Dixie Softball, Inc., and possibly even the President of the organization.
It remains unclear whether Borland was a paid employee or a volunteer. However, based on the information and evidence gathered during the investigation, detectives established sufficient probable cause to support the original allegations. On July 12, detectives obtained an arrest warrant for Smith for theft exceeding $25,000.
Although the arrest records show an amount greater than $25,000, multiple sources indicated that the actual unaccounted-for sum might be significantly higher. Many parents expressed concerns about the aggressive fundraising efforts for teams to attend out-of-area games, believing it to be unnecessary. These concerns led them to question the organization’s finances.
On July 12, 2024, Smith was taken into custody without incident and booked into the Rapides Parish Detention Center for one count of theft over $25,000. Smith was later released on a $5,000 bond.
It is important to note that the victim or legal entity in this investigation is not the Ward 10 Recreational Complex. Sheriff’s Detectives have stated that this remains an ongoing investigation.
All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
