California Attorney General Rob Bonta announced felony charges against former Lassen Superior Court Executive Officer Theresa Stalter. The charges accuse Stalter of misusing over $14,000 in public funds between 2022 and 2025.
Stalter allegedly used a court-issued credit card and submitted false reimbursement requests to pay for personal expenses. Court employees noticed unusual transactions on court credit and fuel cards in October 2024. They reported their findings to the court’s presiding judge, who alerted the Lassen County Sheriff’s Office.
The Lassen County District Attorney’s Office asked the California Department of Justice to take over the investigation in July 2025. Investigators examined court financial records, reimbursement requests, purchasing procedures, and interviewed witnesses. Their review uncovered about $14,285 in unauthorized spending.
Attorney General Bonta emphasized the duty public officials have to protect taxpayer money. He said his office will hold those who misuse public funds accountable and continue efforts to fight public corruption.
The charges remain allegations. The legal process will determine Stalter’s guilt or innocence.
