On March 1, 2012, The North Platte Police Department was called to Mid Plains Community College on the report of embezzlement from the athletic fund.  Mid Plains office staff members were made aware that numerous checks written to the college athletics fund had not been cashed or cleared bank accounts since 2010. An investigation revealed that Cynthea Danielle Russell (07/25/1974), Mid Plains Community College’s Purchasing and Accounts Receivable employee, was responsible for taking over $27,000 from over 45 different deposits since 2010. Russell was booked into the Lincoln County Detention Center for Theft by Unlawful Taking Class III Felony.

Russell has posted a $50,000.00 Bond

Ryan Purdy, Interim President said, “We confirm that Cynthea Russell, a purchasing and accounts receivable assistant has been released from her duties effective immediately and the investigation is continuing. The investigation involves only athletic fundraising, concessions and athletic events,” said Mr. Purdy.