Palm Bay Christian Academy Principal and Wife Arrested for Alleged Voucher Money Theft

Lazaro and Ariana Lugo Accused of Stealing Nearly $50,000 Over Three Years

PALM BAY, FL — The principal of Palm Bay Christian Academy, Ryan Louis Lugo, 50, and his wife Nancy Enid Lugo, 52, were arrested Monday, accused of stealing nearly $50,000 in Florida school voucher money meant for low-income students over a three-year period.

Alleged Theft Details

According to investigators, the Lugos overcharged for services the state was already funding and pocketed the difference. The school, which enrolled about 116 students who relied on state scholarships, charged parents $150 registration fees per student even though it received state funds to cover those costs. It also charged for transportation and uniforms that should have been free.

The alleged theft occurred between January 2021 and April 2024, totaling approximately $49,686.94. The couple faces felony grand theft charges.

Reactions and Fallout

The case originated from a parent complaint after an internal audit by the pastor of the school's affiliated church, Iglesia El Sinai Church in Palm Bay. The church's senior pastor allegedly helped conceal the crime and refused to press charges.

Step Up For Students, the organization that distributes the state scholarships, said it was "deeply troubled" by the allegations and is conducting its own investigation. It suspended scholarship payments to the school.

Parents expressed shock and disappointment. "You put your trust in a Christian school and for them to do that, it's like, wow," one parent said.

Broader Context

This case highlights ongoing concerns about potential fraud and lack of oversight in Florida's school voucher programs, which provide state funds for students to attend private schools. As the investigation unfolds, it underscores the need for rigorous accountability measures to ensure these funds benefit the intended recipients - low-income students and families.

The Palm Bay community deserves answers as this troubling case progresses. The Palm Bayer will continue to follow this developing story and provide updates.