Payroll Error Led to Nearly $19,400 Overpayment, Then Felony Charge, Affidavit Says

JONESBORO, Ark. — A payroll error that allegedly led to a former employee being overpaid by nearly $19,400 has now resulted in a felony theft charge, according to court records.

Rene Nichole Coleman, 50, was arrested for theft of property greater than $5,000 but less than $25,000, a Class C felony.

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According to a probable cause affidavit from the Jonesboro Police Department, a theft report was submitted on Aug. 12, 2025. The victim, identified as the CEO of a local business, told police that a former employee, Coleman, had stolen funds from the company.

The affidavit states the victim said Coleman was regularly paid $16.50 per hour. However, on May 10, 2025, an error in the prior payroll system caused Coleman to be paid $1,650 hourly for her 12-hour shift.

As a result, Coleman was allegedly overpaid $19,388, according to the affidavit.

When the error was discovered, the victim told police Coleman refused to return the money, the affidavit states. The victim also provided financial documents and emails to support the claim.

A detective later spoke with Coleman by phone, and she agreed to come speak with investigators about the matter but failed to do so, according to the affidavit.

On April 6, 2026, investigators were advised that Coleman was in custody at the Craighead County Detention Center on the bench warrant that had been obtained on Aug. 18, 2025.

Court records show Coleman’s bail was set at $15,000 cash or surety by Judge David Boling. Her next court date is May 18.

All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.