Former Prentiss City Clerk Indicted For Embezzling Over $10,000 From Local 5K Nonprofit Organization

Dana Melissa Jones has been indicted for allegedly stealing over $10,000 from the Prentiss Run for the Roses 5K nonprofit in Jefferson Davis County.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 10, 2026, 9:47 AM EDT

Source: The information in this article was sourced from WLBT

Grand Jury Indictment Leads To Arrest Of Former Municipal Official

A lengthy financial investigation in Jefferson Davis County has culminated in the arrest of a former public servant on felony embezzlement charges. Dana Melissa Jones, who previously served as the city clerk for Prentiss, was taken into custody on Monday by the Jefferson Davis County Sheriff’s Office. The arrest followed a formal indictment signed on March 2, which outlines allegations of financial misconduct involving a local community organization. Jones, widely known in the community as "Missy," is currently being held as legal proceedings begin in the 15th Circuit Court District.

Theft Allegations Center On Community 5K Nonprofit Funds

According to court records provided by District Attorney Hal Kittrell’s office, the criminal activity allegedly occurred while Jones held the position of treasurer for the Prentiss Run for the Roses 5K. This nonprofit organization is a staple of local community engagement, raising funds for municipal projects through its annual athletic event. The indictment specifies that Jones "willfully, unlawfully and feloniously" diverted funds from the nonprofit for personal use. The timeframe of the alleged embezzlement spans nearly two years, beginning in July 2023 and continuing through June 2025.

Audit Reveals Loss Exceeding $10,000 Milestone

The Jefferson Davis County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the total amount of missing funds attributed to Jones exceeds $10,000. While the investigation into the exact flow of the money is still ongoing, auditors identified significant discrepancies in the nonprofit's ledger during Jones's tenure as treasurer. Embezzlement from a nonprofit in Mississippi carries severe penalties, particularly when the amount exceeds the $5,000 or $10,000 thresholds, which elevate the classification of the felony. The District Attorney’s office has not yet specified if any city-managed municipal funds were also affected, focusing the current charges strictly on the 5K organization.