06/09/2026
A payroll mistake in Jonesboro, Arkansas, turned into a criminal case after a caregiver was accidentally paid nearly $19,400 for a single 12-hour shift. The employee normally earned $16.50 per hour, but a data entry error reportedly increased her pay rate to $1,650 per hour, resulting in an overpayment of $19,388.
When the company discovered the mistake, management contacted the employee and asked her to return the money. According to investigators, she refused and allegedly told them, "No, sir. This is my come up," indicating she intended to keep the unexpected payment.
Authorities say the company provided payroll records, bank information, and internal communications showing the payment was made in error. Despite being informed of the mistake, she allegedly failed to return the funds.
Months later, prosecutors filed felony theft charges. Police said the woman initially agreed to meet with investigators but later failed to appear for a scheduled interview. An arrest warrant was issued, and she was eventually taken into custody and formally charged under Arkansas law.
