Marion High School teacher charged after Home Depot theft investigation

FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

MARION, Ill., (KBSI) — A Marion High School building trades teacher was arrested Tuesday following an investigation into reported thefts at Home Depot, according to Marion police.

Lester E. James, 59, of Carbondale, faces one count of felony retail theft and two counts of misdemeanor theft by deception. Officers arrested James without incident about 3:49 p.m. Sept. 29, police said.

The investigation began Sept. 23 after Home Depot reported ongoing thefts allegedly involving one person. Detectives gathered evidence that led to James’ arrest, police said.

James was taken to the Williamson County Jail pending his first court appearance.

Marion Community Unit School District 2 acknowledged the arrest of a high school employee in a statement to families but did not identify the employee.

Superintendent Becky Moss said the district was gathering information and would provide additional details as soon as possible.

“The arrest is related to allegations that took place outside of school and had no connection to Marion students, staff, or the safety of the school district,” Moss said.

James is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.