TUNICA COUNTY, Miss — Mississippi State Auditor Shad White announced Thursday former Director of the Tunica County Airport Eric Konupka has been arrested after an investigation into embezzlement.
Konupka is accused of using the Tunica County Airport’s debit card for his own personal expenses. The state auditor said he allegedly used the airport’s card to withdraw cash from ATMs and purchase food, automotive supplies, energy drinks, and cigarettes. Konupka also purportedly used the card at casinos and restaurants near Tunica.
Konupka was indicted and issued a demand letter showing he owes over $9,000 to Tunica County taxpayers.
“Whether it’s the largest public fraud in the state or an employee using a government purchasing card to buy a few thousand dollars’ worth of items for themselves, we will hold the line on any misuse of taxpayer money,” said State Auditor Shad White.
Konupka was arrested by law enforcement officials in south Florida.
If convicted, Konupka faces up to 20 years in prison and thousands of dollars in fines.
The state auditor said Konupka’s previous employment at the Tunica County Airport is covered by an insurance policy. This insurance policy is designed to protect taxpayers from corruption.
