Huntsville, September 30, 2025
News Summary
Heather Spier, a former Huntsville city employee, has been indicted for first-degree theft involving approximately $73,000 from the Huntsville Eastern League. Her trial is set for January 2026. Additionally, the Huntsville Police Department and the FBI are investigating a separate fraud case concerning the unexpected closure of the Huntsville College Preparatory School, which affected many families. That investigation is ongoing, focusing on potential financial misconduct within the school.
Huntsville
A former city employee in Huntsville has been indicted for first-degree theft after allegedly embezzling approximately $73,000 from the Huntsville Eastern League. Heather Spier, who once worked for the city, faces a criminal trial set to begin on January 12, 2026. She was indicted in 2024 and is currently out on bond.
The Huntsville Police Department, with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), is currently investigating a separate fraud case related to the unexpected closure of the Huntsville College Preparatory School in February 2025. This school catered to children with learning disabilities and its sudden shut down left numerous parents scrambling to find alternative schooling options for their children.
According to the Huntsville Police, the investigation into the school is still in the fact-finding stage, and they have not released detailed information at this time. The FBI Birmingham office has been enlisted to aid the local police, which is the lead agency conducting the investigation.
Details of Huntsville College Preparatory School Closure
The Huntsville College Preparatory School reportedly had an outstanding rental agreement with John Blue Commercial Real Estate, as it rented a facility from the company. The school had not paid rent since 2024 and continued to incur costs for approximately six months until the utilities were terminated. The president of the company, John D. Blue, stated that the school failed to transfer the utilities into its name. Furthermore, the school issued several checks that bounced, indicating potential financial struggles.
It also surfaced that the school provided misleading information to parents regarding the reason for its closure, claiming a pipe burst while obscuring broader financial issues. The CFO of John Blue Commercial Real Estate mentioned that the investigation is focused on the school collecting tuition money while neglecting its financial obligations, including unpaid rent and utilities.
Prior to the closing, the Huntsville College Preparatory School had communicated to parents that it would shift to virtual learning as a result of problems with the building, thereby leading up to the suspension of in-person classes and eventual closure.
In an effort to support families impacted by the Huntsville College Preparatory School’s closure, Huntsville Christian Academy has opened its doors for transfer students and issued a statement expressing solidarity with affected families.
Background Context
The Huntsville Eastern League, from which the funds were reportedly embezzled, is a local organization aimed at providing youth sports activities. The issues surrounding the league are reflective of larger financial integrity concerns within local institutions, especially those serving the young population.
In summary, the Huntsville community grapples with two separate but significant cases of alleged financial misconduct. Heather Spier faces serious legal repercussions for her actions within the youth sports organization, while the abrupt end of operations at the Huntsville College Preparatory School raises many concerns for families and authorities alike.
FAQ Section
What charges has Heather Spier faced?
Heather Spier has been indicted for first-degree theft.
How much money is associated with the embezzlement case?
The embezzlement case involves approximately $73,000 stolen from the Huntsville Eastern League.
When is Heather Spier’s trial scheduled?
Spier’s criminal trial is scheduled to begin on January 12, 2026.
What happened to Huntsville College Preparatory School?
Huntsville College Preparatory School abruptly closed in February 2025 during the school year, leaving parents struggling to find alternative educational arrangements for their children.
What is the current status of the investigation into Huntsville College Preparatory School?
The investigation is still in the fact-finding stage and no further details have been disclosed.
Who is assisting in the investigation?
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is assisting the Huntsville Police Department in the investigation.
Key Features Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Individual Charged | Heather Spier |
| Nature of Charges | First-degree theft |
| Amount Embezzled | $73,000 |
| Trial Date | January 12, 2026 |
| School Closure | Huntsville College Preparatory School |
| Investigation Status | Fact-finding stage, FBI involved |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Former Huntsville Officer Indicted for Misusing Crime Stoppers Funds
Retired Huntsville Police Officer Arrested for Theft
Huntsville Police Officers Arrested Amid Investigations
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Huntsville Former Police Officer Indicted for Misappropriation of Funds
Former Crime Stoppers Coordinator Indicted for Misuse of Funds
Former Huntsville Police Officer Indicted for Fund Misappropriation
Former Huntsville Officer Indicted for Fund Misappropriation
Missing Persons Located in Madison County
Additional Resources
- WAFF: Trial for Former Huntsville Employee Accused of Embezzling Youth Sports League
- WHNT: Huntsville Man Charged with Embezzlement
- AL.com: FBI Assisting with Fraud Investigation After School Closure
- ABC3340: Former Bank VP Sentenced for Embezzlement Scheme
- Wikipedia: Embezzlement
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTSVILLE WRITER
The HUNTSVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHuntsville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntsville, Madison County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Panoply Arts Festival, Rocket City Brewfest, and Huntsville Comic & Pop Culture Expo. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce and HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, plus leading businesses in aerospace, defense, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Boeing, SAIC, and Mazda Toyota Manufacturing. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBirmingham.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
