School officials charged in $300,000 embezzlement scheme

The International School of Monterey in Seaside became aware of the financial irregularities following a large Costco order placed by former food services director Terry Bumper. The unusual order, including substantial quantities of eggs, bacon, and potatoes, prompted a review that uncovered Bumper’s alleged misuse of school funds.

Bumper, age 42, is accused of embezzling $58,800, utilizing the funds to support his catering business, Flava 2 You, which he started in 2023. He is also accused of renting out the school’s kitchens for personal gain.

Further investigation, spurred by Bumper’s actions, revealed that Chief Financial Officer Rosa Segura, 45, allegedly diverted over $238,000 from school accounts for personal expenses such as vacations, dining, spa treatments, and online purchases.

“There’s something about this level of theft that really gets under my skin… You are ripping off not just the school, not just the kids; it’s taxpayer dollars — you are ripping everybody off,” said Seaside Police Chief Nick Borges.

Bumper was arrested on September 24th and formally charged with felony embezzlement on October 20th. He pleaded not guilty and was released on $20,000 bail. He maintains his innocence, claiming his role was solely to order food and that Segura had final approval over all orders.

Segura was arrested for felony embezzlement on October 22nd.

Authorities have not yet determined if Segura and Bumper collaborated in their alleged actions or were aware of each other’s fraudulent activities.